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Fruits of Philosophy

Fruits of Philosophy: A Treatise on the Population Question

1832

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15

Interesting look at the information (and misinformation) surrounding reproduction and birth control during the early 1800s. The appendix and notes also point to other lines of history to explore. One example: In the last paragraph or so of the book, a vague reference is made to “The Fall River affair” as an example of how information about contraception might have made for a a less tragic outcome. After following the rabbit trail this opened for me, I learned that this refers to a case of a young woman (Sarah Maria Cornell) working in the mills (therefore–a “loose” woman) who had found herself pregnant by a married, upstanding man in the community. So, she hung herself (or maybe was forced/murdered/?). The note in the pamphlet isn't condemning or condoning, just pointing out that better information might have made a difference for one young woman's life. [bc:An Infidel Body-Snatcher and the Fruits of His Philosophy 17618612 An Infidel Body-Snatcher and the Fruits of His Philosophy Dan Allosso https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1363413599l/17618612.SY75.jpg 24585026] [b:An Infidel Body-Snatcher and the Fruits of His Philosophy 17618612 An Infidel Body-Snatcher and the Fruits of His Philosophy Dan Allosso https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1363413599l/17618612.SY75.jpg 24585026] by [a:Dan Allosso 867754 Dan Allosso https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1602539141p2/867754.jpg] was the instigator for my curiosity in reading about Charles Knowlton's life. Lots of fascinating history to explore–history of birth control and medicine, religion, New England settlement, family history, book publishing, etc.

January 26, 2023