An Estimate of the Manners and Principles of the Times and Other Writings
- John Brown (author)
- David Womersely (editor)
The central text of this volume, An Estimate of the Manners and Principles of the Times (1757), is a vigorous attack on the “vain, luxurious, and selfish effeminacy” of England’s higher ranks, in the wake of the loss of Minorca to the French at the opening of the Seven Years’ War (1756–1763). Brown repeated the usual complaints of corruption that had been raised during the premiership of Walpole and argued that public virtue had been undermined by a preoccupation with luxury and commerce. Estimate was printed no fewer than seven times within the first year, earning the author the name “Estimate Brown.”
Related People
Critical Responses
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The Fable of the BeesBernard Mandeville
A provocative counterpoint to Brown, Mandeville argues that private vice can lead to public benefit. Perfect for readers interested in early debates over virtue, commerce, and corruption.
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The Passions and the InterestsAlbert O. Hirschman
A modern scholarly response. Hirschman explores how thinkers in the 17th–18th centuries saw commerce not as a corrupting force, but as a way to tame destructive passions. A counterpoint to Brown’s moral panic.
Connected Readings
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Characteristicks of Men, Manners, Opinions, Times, 3 vols.Anthony Ashley Cooper, Earl of Shaftesbury
