Social Darwinism and social policy : the problem of the feeble-minded, 1900-1914
This work is the first systematic study and analysis of Social Darwinism and social policy in order to ascertain what effects, if any, were produced on British social policy during the period 1900-14. Darwinism - both social and scientific - is examined together with such allied concepts as Eugenics and Degeneration theory. Heredity is considered, both pre- and post-publication of the 'Origin of the Species', and any change in outlook that could be attributed to Darwinism is detailed. The specific piece of Social policy that is studied is the Mental Deficiency Act of 1913 which was a direct response to the Royal Commission on the Care and Control of the Feeble-Minded 1904-08. The reasons behind the setting up of The Royal Commission and its proceedings are analysed, as well as attitudes towards the future treatment of defectives and opinions on the hereditary nature of feeblemindedness. The reception of the findings and recommendations of the Commission is examined with reference to the part taken by the Government Departments; both those with oversight of the Commission and those who wanted to be more involved (e.g. the Board of Education and the Local Government Board). A detailed study is made of the developments
Owen, John
Mental Deficiency Act 1913
Social Darwinism and social policy : the problem of the feeble-minded, 1900-1914. This work is the first systematic study and analysis of Social Darwinism and social policy in order to ascertain what effects, if any, were produced on British social policy during the period 1900-14. Darwinism - both social and scientific - is examined together with such allied concepts as Eugenics and Degeneration theory. Heredity is considered, both pre- and post-publication of the 'Origin of the Species', and any change in outlook that could be attributed to Darwinism is detailed. The specific piece of Social policy that is studied is the Mental Deficiency Act of 1913 which was a direct response to the Royal Commission on the Care and Control of the Feeble-Minded 1904-08. The reasons behind the setting up of The Royal Commission and its proceedings are analysed, as well as attitudes towards the future treatment of defectives and opinions on the hereditary nature of feeblemindedness. The reception of the findings and recommendations of the Commission is examined with reference to the part taken by the Government Departments; both those with oversight of the Commission and those who wanted to be more involved (e.g. the Board of Education and the Local Government Board). A detailed study is made of the developments
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