Full Description
First Published in 2005. The following study analyses several sequences of differentiation and a attempt to apply social theory to history. Such an analysis naturally calls for two components: (1) a segment of social theory; and (2) an empirical instance of change. For the first the author has selected a model of social change from a developing general theory of action; for the second, the British industrial revolution between 1770 and 1840. From this large revolution is the isolated the growth of the cotton industry and the transformation of the family structure of its working classes.
Contents
Preface 1. Introduction 2. Some Empty Theoretical Boxes 3. Filling the Boxes 4. Structural Differentiation in Spinning 5. Structural Differentiation in Spinning (continued) 6. Structural Differentiation in Spinning (concluded) 7. Structural Differentiation in Weaving 8. Refilling the Boxes 9. Pressures on the Family Division of Labour 10. Symptoms of Disturbance in the Family 11. Differentiation of the Family Structure: Factory Legislation 12. New Conditions of Employment: The Evolution of Trade Unions 13. Structural Change in Consumption and Savings: The Poor Law, Friendly Societies, Savings Banks, and Co-operative Societies 14. The Question of Explanation in Working-class History 15. Summary of the Analysis Bibliography Index
