Question

The “Doctrine of Circumstances” by Owen emphasizes:

• A. Only genetics matter
• B. Character is shaped by environment
• C. Wealth is inherited
• D. Competition breeds excellence

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Character is shaped by environment

ROBERT OWEN

Titles and Recognition

Known as the:

• Father of the Co-operative Movement

• Father of English Socialism

• Father of Modern Socialism

• Father of Labor Welfare Organization

• First Personnel Manager in the World

• A Utopian Socialist

Beliefs and Contributions

Doctrine of Circumstances

• Owen believed that a person's character is shaped by their environment.

• He thought humans are naturally good and can be improved through better living and working conditions.

• According to Owen, “by birth men were neither “too good nor too bad", it was the circumstances that makes a man good or bad.

Reforms at New Lanark Mill

• Stopped child labor

• Reduced working hours (17hrs to 8hrs)

• Increased wages

• Opened schools and hospitals within the factory

• Started the first infant school in England in 1816 at New Lanark

Belief in Co-operation

• He believed that "competition must be replaced by cooperation."

• First used the term “Co-operative Society” in 1821 in The Economist magazine.