Reinterpretation of Changes in the Social System in the Context of Early Modern Thought

The beginning of modern times, in contrast to the previous era, is still characterized by a growing importance of labour in human life. The article is focused on the new social policy and the evolution of institutions called workhouses and house of corrections which illustrate the growing meaning of labour. Workhouses, however they were seen as benevolent equipment, they have been strengthened also with practically advantageous symbiosis undertaken principles of mercantilism. Despite the controversial practice of workhouses, we can consider them as the most important stage in the long term evolution of active labour market policy. Labour as a topos of modern social policy identified new opportunities to help the poor and anticipated various forms of active labour market policies of modern times.