Religion in Industrial Society

Analyzes the way British churches sought to meet the challenge of industrialization and urbanization during the period 1740-1865. Based on a case-study of Oldham and Saddleworth, the work challenges the view that the Anglican church in the 18th century was characterized by complacency and inertia.

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This book analyzes the way British churches sought to meet the challenge of industrialization and urbanization during the period 1740-1865. Based on a case-study of Oldham and Saddleworth, it challenges the received view that the Anglican church in the 18th century was characterized by complacency and inertia, and it reveals Anglicanism's vigorous and creative response to the new conditions. M.A. Smith reassesses the significance of the centrally directed church reforms of the mid-19th century, and emphasizes the importance of local energy and enthusiasm. Dr Smith charts the growth of denominational pluralism in Oldham and Saddleworth, and compares Anglican and nonconformist approaches to promoting church growth. He demonstrates the extent to which all the churches participated in a common culture shaped by the influence of Evangelicalism, and shows the extent to which active co-operation between the churches rather than denominational conflict predominated.