History A-Level
Utilitarian and Malthusian thought
What Utilitarian and Malthusian thought means in History A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of Utilitarian and Malthusian thought
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Utilitarian and Malthusian thought in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
Ideas such as Bentham's greatest happiness principle and Malthusian fears about population pushed for deterrence and less generous relief.
Topics that use Utilitarian and Malthusian thought
- Paper 1, Option 1D: Britain, c1785–c1870: democracy, protest and reform - 4 Poverty and pauperism, c1785–c1870 (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
- Centralisation versus local control
- Charity and philanthropy
- Deterrence and less eligibility
- Literary influence on social reform
- Poverty and pauperism
- Pressure for reform
- Protest and popular resistance
- Regional economic differences
Using Utilitarian and Malthusian thought in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise History questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All History A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge