The economic origins of paternalism: some objections.

The article presents a commentary on M. Huberman's paper "The Economic Origins of Paternalism: Lancashire Cotton Spinning in the First Half of the Nineteenth Century." It argues against Huberman's portrayal of the rural labour market both atypical by virtue of their size and the prominent roles assumed by the families. An overview of employment in the urban labor market during the period is provided. It offers observation on Huberman's discussion of short-time working during temporary downturns in trade.