John Bowring and British Liberalism in the Czech National Awakening

Abstract

The intervention of the scholar and diplomat, John Bowring (1792-1872), in the cultural and political affairs of Bohemia represented the highpoint of British influence during the Restoration era. His background in Benthamite utilitarianism harmonized with the liberal and cosmopolitan spirit of the Bohemian awakening. Moreover, British utilitarians had demonstrated their concern for the freedom of small nations already in the case of Greek independence. In addition, Bowring's intervention synergized with the contemporary liberal and liberating impact of the French July Revolution of 1830. Bowring's orientation toward cultural universalism and political individualism, serves as an effective counterpoint to the alleged influence of cultural particularism in the Bohemian awakening, usually associated with Herder.