Age of Atonement

The book explores the fixation of the British upper and middle classes on various catastrophes in the 19th century, including wars and natural disasters. It examines how the era's evangelical beliefs framed these hardships as divine will, leading to a government stance that favored self-reliance over assistance for the impoverished. Hilton analyzes the impact of evolving religious perspectives on economics, philosophy, science, and politics, highlighting a significant transformation in societal attitudes during this tumultuous period.