Defoe,Daniel. — An essay upon projects.

Menston, Scolar Press, 1969. XIV,336 pp. Hardcover.A Scolar Press facsimile of the original edition of 1697. - A non-fiction work written by Daniel Defoe, first published in 1697, and one of Defoe's earliest publications, containing numerous proposals for social and economic improvements in England. Defoe discusses various "projects" or proposals, including improvements in banking, insurance, road maintenance, and the establishment of academies. He advocated in particular for education for women, a pension system for the poor, and care for the mentally ill. Written around 1692-1693 and published in 1697, it reflects his perspective as a merchant and his interest in practical, progressive solutions for society. The introduction to the work notes that Defoe's suggestions were often far ahead of their time, and that some ideas were not realized until long after his death.