Collections Relative To Systematic Relief Of The Poor, At Different Periods, And In Different Countries - Softcover

John Shute Duncan

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0461588005 ISBN 13: 9780461588002

Publisher: HardPress, 2020

Synopsis

Collections Relative To Systematic Relief Of The Poor, At Different Periods, And In Different Countries: With Observations On Charity, Its Proper Objects And Conduct, And Its Influence On The Welfare Of Nations by John Shute Duncan. This work surveys the historical foundations and practical means of alleviating poverty across civilizations, arguing that charity must be guided by a principled science of beneficence rather than indiscriminate almsgiving. Duncan discusses biblical prescriptions, such as Moses and Leviticus, Roman and Greek hospitality, Confucian benevolence, and Islamic alms, to illustrate how 'welfare' has been pursued through duties to the poor. It then traces the evolution of public relief, from slavery-era economies and feudal structures to organized state systems and the early modern poor laws of Europe, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and Iceland. The author advocates a rational, universally applicable approach—combining philanthropy, education, and employment with prudent regulation—to promote general welfare while sustaining liberty and religious virtue. The study concludes with a call for mutual sympathy and disciplined charity to strengthen nations.

Edition details

• Publisher: HardPress
• Publication date: 2020
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0461588005
• ISBN 13: 9780461588002
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 256