Notes on Urbanization and Social Critique in Historical Context

Overview of Meat Production and Urban Development

• Beef production described as:
  • Messy, smelly, and dirty business.
  • Contributes to urban pollution and health issues.

Urban and Rural Living Dynamics

• Merchants' preferences:
  • Townhouses in city centers (like London and Birmingham) for proximity to trade and docks.
  • Desire for a country residence to escape urban discomforts, especially in summer (cooler and quieter).

Social Observations by Fielding

• Notable increase in dog ownership among returning elites:
  • Dogs serve as protection against theft, especially jewelry and valuables.
  • This indicates rising crime rates.
• Fielding as a social critic:
  • Observed correlation between poverty and increasing crime.
  • Poverty contributes to social unrest and safety concerns for the wealthy.

The Role of the Upper Class

• Rising traditional class:
  • Engaged in developing both rural (for leisure) and urban (for trade) lifestyles.
  • Demonstrates a desire to exploit both economic opportunities and maintain a comfortable lifestyle.

Summary of Societal Trends

• The intersection of wealth, urbanization, and crime highlights critical social issues during this period:
  • Increasing divide between social classes.
  • Growing concerns regarding safety and the rights of property owners amidst urban poverty.