Violent History of Benevolence

"A Violent History of Benevolence" by Chris Chapman offers a thought-provoking examination of the darker undercurrents within the narratives of liberalism, progress, and social work. Published in 2019 by the University of Toronto Press, this insightful hardback spans 277 pages, revealing how these seemingly positive histories are deeply intertwined with systemic violences, including colonialism, racism, disablism, cisheteropatriarchy, eugenics, and capitalism.

Chapman's meticulous research invites readers to reconsider the moral and ethical dimensions of benevolence through a critical lens. This book is essential for anyone interested in the complexities of social service and the histories that shape our current understanding of societal progress. Join Chapman on a compelling journey that challenges conventional narratives and encourages a more inclusive dialogue about the implications of benevolence in modern history.