- Softcover
- New

Seller: PBShop.store US, Wood Dale, IL, U.S.A.PBShop.store US
AbeBooks seller since April 7, 2005
Condition: New
US$ 19.12
Quantity: Over 20 available
Add to basketItem description from seller
New Book. Shipped from UK. Established seller since 2000.
Seller Inventory # L2-9798233244780
- Title
- Instruments of authority
- Author
- Patrick Coyne
- Publisher
- Patrick Coyne
- Publication year
- 2025
- Condition
- New
- Binding
- PAP
- Language
- English
- ISBN 13
- 9798233244780
- Item weight
- 195 grams
Throughout history, societies have wielded fear, shame, and public spectacle as powerful tools of control. From the scold's bridle and ducking stool to the Iron Maiden and Branks, instruments of punishment were never solely about physical pain-they were symbols of authority, social order, and moral instruction.
This meticulously researched book explores the devices used over centuries to enforce compliance, regulate behaviour, and maintain hierarchical structures. Each chapter examines the historical, legal, and psychological context of these instruments, highlighting how visibility, humiliation, and societal participation amplified their impact.
Readers will discover:
The historical origins and use of iconic punishment devices across Europe
How public shaming and restraint enforced social norms and gender roles
The symbolic power of fear and reputation in maintaining authority
Cultural and legal frameworks that justified punishment
Insights into the evolution of societal control and discipline
Accessible yet scholarly, Instruments of Authority illuminates the intersection of history, psychology, and social power, offering a compelling look at how punishment shaped both individuals and communities. This book is essential reading for anyone fascinated by the dark and intricate mechanisms through which societies have exercised control.
"Synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
PBShop.store US
Wood Dale, IL, U.S.A.
AbeBooks seller since April 7, 2005
Shipping rates within U.S.A.
| Item | 7 to 14 business days | 7 to 14 business days |
|---|---|---|
| First item | US$ 0.00 | US$ 0.00 |
Payment methods
Store description
We first started out as “The Paperback Exchange,” a chain of physical bookstores where we would part exchange your beloved books for new stories to transport you to faraway places. However, as shopping started to evolve to online shops and marketplaces, we bid our stores goodbye to become “PBShop.” This transition has only allowed us to blossom as we now ship thousands of titles to book lovers across the globe. We pride ourselves in being a community of local book lovers which allows our passion and devotion to shine in everything we do. In 2020 we not only celebrated our 20th birthday but our 1st birthday as being completely employee owned after becoming an E.O.T in September 2019. We are proud to be different and embrace standing apart on a book mountain by working from a virtual inventory which allows us to provide thousands of books that may be difficult to get for your bookshelf or your studies. Working with a number of different suppliers allows us to explore other avenues such as puzzles, sheet music and even stationery so we really do have something for everyone. Life is about being versatile in all realms of existence. If this is your first visit or you are a returning customer, we would like to welcome you to the PBShop family, for there is no friend as loyal as a book. We are a company who put our customers at the centre of everything we do as we understand the importance of reading because once you learn to read, you will forever be free. There are a whole lot of things in this world of ours that we are yet to explore, which is why we will forever inspire curious minds.…
Specialty
Hardbacks, PaperbacksSeller's business information
Pbshop.co.uk Ltd
Unit 22 Horcott Industrial Estate, Horcott Road
Fairford, United Kingdom GL7 4BX
Terms of sale
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