ABSTRACT
J A Hobson's classic work, Imperialism: A Study has received widespread attention by commentators and his accompanying economic theory of imperial expansion outlined in the work, has been frequently re-interpreted, extended and criticised.(!) Whilst Hobson's theory of imperialism is widely known, the evolution of his ideas and writings in numerous journals in the years prior to the first publication of Imperialism in 1902 is still relatively unknown. Despite Bernard Porter's discussion of this development in Critics of Empire, and P J Cain's recent article, Hobson's perspectives, thoughts and more general contributions to discussions on a range of imperial topics, including the two leading political imperial issues of the 1880s and early 1900s - schemes for imperial federation and imperial preference - have virtually been ignored.(2) This chapter aims, amongst other things, to demonstrate that Hobson discussed such topics with a substantial degree of balance and objectivity, though he had strong personal feelings on the matters. Additionally, it seeks to point out and note Hobson's ideas and opinions on a diverse range of ethical, social, economic and political aspects associated with the possession and governing of a diverse empire, such as that commanded by the United Kingdom.
