Implementing Malthus — How One Cleric Set the Tone for the Irish Famine

Abstract

In times of chaos, people are faced with a difficult decision. Do we stick to the course, business as normal, or do we try taking drastic actions? Historically, in these great debates, we see thinkers and voices emerge that come to epitomize this dilemma. Incendiary works of literature and outspoken authors can find themselves setting the tone for the great ordeals of their times. No author serves as a better voice for the English response to the Irish Potato Famine than T. R. Malthus. His literature said just what members of Parliament wanted to hear to justify their unconcerned approach to Famine relief.