Thomas Hodgskin
Thomas Hodgskin was a notable English naval officer and economist born in 1787 in Chatham, Kent. He enlisted in the navy at the age of twelve, rising through the ranks before leaving in 1812. Following his naval career, Hodgskin published his first work, "An Essay on Naval Discipline," which criticized the treatment of sailors in the British Navy. He then pursued studies at Edinburgh University, developing a keen interest in economics. From 1815 to 1820, he traveled extensively across Europe, and upon returning, he became a journalist in London, where his economic views gained prominence. Hodgskin authored several influential works, including "Popular Political Economy" and "The Natural and Artificial Right of Property Contrasted." His writings, particularly on free trade and workers' rights, had a significant impact, influencing later thinkers such as Karl Marx. Hodgskin continued to engage in journalism until his death in 1869, leaving a lasting legacy in economic thought.
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Thomas Hodgskin
Writer
- Born: December 12, 1787
- Birthplace: Chatham, Kent, England
- Died: August 21, 1869
Biography
Thomas Hodgskin was born in Chatham, Kent, England, in 1787. At the age of twelve, Hodgskin enlisted in the navy, where he served for many years, working his way up the ranks. Hodgskin became quite an accomplished officer before leaving in 1812. On year later, Hodgskin published his first work, An Essay on Naval Discipline, condemning the harsh treatment of sailors in the British Navy.
After leaving the Navy, Hodgskin took up studying at Edinburgh University were he took an interest in economics. From 1815 to 1820, Hodgskin and companions traveled around Europe. When he returned, Hodgskin took a position as a journalist in London. There, his views on the economy drew attention to the writer. At the same time he began to publish a number of books on economy, as well as travel and speak on the subject.
In 1827, he published Popular Political Economy and The Natural and Artificial Right of Property Contrasted in 1832. Hodgskin also took to writing for The Economist, a publication he wrote for over fifteen years. Hodgskin’s views on free trade, the rights of workers, and other topics would go on to inspire future thinkers, including Karl Marx. Hodgskin continued to work as a journalist until his death in 1869.