ABSTRACT
This chapter elaborates the profound influence of Jeremy Bentham's arguments and models on the legislation of the nineteenth century. It maintains the translation of Bentham's ideas into practical effect took place by a threefold process-or, better, by the interaction of three processes. Exposure to the thought and attitudes of Benthamism took five main forms. The immediate source of irradiation was of course Bentham's own house. The chapter shows the second main means by which Benthamism was transmitted-suscitation. This comprehends three main channels: first, the manipulation of public inquiries to return Benthamite answers; second, the manipulation of a select public opinion; and third, both of these used conjointly. The chapter turns the three interconnecting processes by which the notions of the Benthamite circle were diffused to a widening public: to the process of permeation. The Benthamites were public servants; they were never in a position to lay down the law and were always forced to work against aristocratic indolence and interference.
