Review by Richard Hilkin
This excellent introduction to British Quakerism was first published in 1960. It covers the complete history of the Society over the last 350 years, explaining the reasons for the changes in the light of contemporary pressures.
It is particularly good in explaining how the Society pressured the government into introducing Prison Reform. And the author describes the contribution Quakers made to the Scientific Awakening of the 18C
Loukes examines how the Quaker’s method of civil disobedience elevated Conscientious Objection into a recognisable response to modern warfare.
Finally by comparing us with Quaker Communities in East Africa Loukes asks why the significant influence we once played in society has diminished. ( )