ABSTRACT
The philosophy of the New Poor Law, borrowed from James Mill, was based on the Malthusian economic doctrine. The commissioners who were entrusted with the enforcement of the New Poor Law thoroughly understood their mission which was once stated by Dr. James Philip Kay at a public meeting. The description given by Mr. F. W. Fowle of the effect of promiscuous aggregation on the poorhouse inmates and especially on the children, restrained as it is, presents a lurid picture of mental and moral contamination. The cruelties perpetrated in various workhouses were divulged by non-partisan men, such as the Rev. William Carus Wilson, who submitted to the legislature his report on the “wanton cruelty of the officers of the New Poor Laws.” The defenders of the New Poor Law did anything but enlighten the non-possessing classes on the real significance and desirability of the new measure.
