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Morality and the Market in Victorian Britain

Author

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  • Searle, G. R.

    (University of East Anglia)

Abstract

In this lively and interesting study, G. R. Searle tackles the conundrum at the heart of Victorian life: how could capitalist values be harmonized with Christian beliefs and with concepts of public morality and social duty? Middle-class Victorians who broadly welcomed industrial growth and embraced the doctrines of `political economy' were sensitive to the charge that theirs was a selfish and materialistic creed. Consequently, if public morality was to be reconciled with the market, wage-labour had to be distinguished from slavery, investment from speculation, and entrepreneurial acumen from dishonesty and fraud. These ideas about citizenship and public virtue offered a greater challenge to rampant capitalism than any pressing need to alleviate poverty. Through its exploration of `Victorian values', this book provides lessons for all those engaged in the present-day debate about the moral and social consequences of unleashing free market forces.

Suggested Citation

  • Searle, G. R., 1998. "Morality and the Market in Victorian Britain," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780198206989.
    • Handle: RePEc:oxp:obooks:9780198206989
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    Cited by:

    1. Velkar, Aashish, 2007. "Accurate measurements and design standards: consistency of design and the travel of 'facts' between heterogeneous groups," Economic History Working Papers 22518, London School of Economics and Political Science, Department of Economic History.

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