Breach Of Confidence Social Origins and Modern Developments

‘The authors of this important book have done a great service to our understanding of this fascinating area of law. Their shrewd and scholarly study traces the development and “myriad reinventions” of this protean doctrine from its eighteen century origins through to its most recent manifestation as a private-facts “tort” in English law, enriching legal analysis with consideration of the philosophical, social and economic contexts. Common law privacy scholars in particular will find that this book directly illuminates contemporary debates.’
– Gavin Phillipson, University of Durham, UK

‘The authors breathe new life into this complex, recondite branch of the law. An illuminating and penetrating study of an ancient remedy whose importance endures – and even increases.’
– Raymond Wacks, University of Hong Kong

This concise yet detailed book explores the historical foundations and modern developments of the ancient doctrine of breach of confidence.

The authors show that despite its humble beginnings, stilted development and air of quaintness the doctrine has modern relevance and influence, its sense of ‘trust and confidence’ still resonating with the information society of today. Topical chapters include, ‘Inventing an equitable doctrine’, ‘Privacy and publicity in early Victorian Britain’, ‘Searching for balance in the employment relationship’, as well as many others.

Breach of Confidence will make insightful reading for all those interested in issues of privacy and information, and will appeal strongly to practicing lawyers and judges as well as academic researchers and postgraduate law students.