How did European societies understand and address poverty before the emergence of the modern „social question“? Taking place at Somerville College, Oxford, on 22–23 October 2026, this conference brings together scholars to explore ideas, practices, and institutions of poor relief across Enlightenment Europe.
The conference examines changing approaches to poverty and poor relief in eighteenth- and early nineteenth-century Europe. Contributions explore rural poverty, political economy, parish relief, confinement and assistance, as well as projects for social reform. Drawing on examples from across Europe, the programme offers a comparative perspective on how poverty was understood and addressed in the age of Enlightenment. The conference is co-organised by Damiano Bardelli, a member of the SGEAJ, together with Matilde Cazzola and Joanna Innes.
