
Contents
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Introduction Introduction
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The development of the ‘modern Western’ conception of childhood The development of the ‘modern Western’ conception of childhood
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Squeezing all children into a mould: the role of middle-class activism Squeezing all children into a mould: the role of middle-class activism
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From child saving to child rights: changes in lexicon but continuity in approaches From child saving to child rights: changes in lexicon but continuity in approaches
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Conclusion Conclusion
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1 Tracing the Western Origins of Global Children’s Rights Discourses
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Published:July 2024
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Abstract
While the notion of children’s rights is now recognized as a meaningful concept, it has to be acknowledged that the concept has its roots in developments that took place in Western European and North American societies. Therefore, this chapter provides a historical account of the development of the modern concept of childhood which underpins dominant children’s rights. Specifically, it provides an overview of the transformations that took place in understandings of childhood and their position in society between the medieval period to the early 20th century in Western European society, with a focus on developments taking place in Britain in particular. It highlights the role of the formal education system in the process as well as the role of middle- and upper-class elites in attempts to universalize the emerging concept of modern childhood across all classes. It ends by highlighting the increasing role of government in child welfare discussions, which was instrumental in creating a shift from child saving to children’s rights.
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