This book provides an in-depth analysis of the economic, social, intellectual and political factors that shaped police reform, development and policy in Scottish burghs during the 'Age of Improvement'. In doing so, it moves beyond many of the 'problem-response' interpretations which have preoccupied many police historians, and locates reform within the wider contexts of urban improvement, municipal administration and Scottish Enlightenment thought.

Considers improvement of the criminal justice and law enforcement systems, with emphasis on correction and rehabilitation, along with a more effective court system and police force.