idea that white slaveholders acted only in the interest of their slaves, such as taking responsibility for their care, feeding, discipline, and christian morality when allowed was called:

The idea that white slaveholders acted only in the interest of their slaves, such as taking responsibility for their care, feeding, discipline, and christian morality when allowed was called a paternalism.

What is the idea of paternalism about?

Basically, paternalism refers to an action that limits a person's or group's liberty or autonomy and is intended to promote their own good. It can also imply that the behavior is against or regardless of the will of a person, or also that the behavior expresses an attitude of superiority. Also known as paternalistic and paternalist have all been used as a pejorative for example in the context of societal and/or political realms and references.

The term "paternalism" also means an interference with the liberty or autonomy of another person with the intent of promoting good or preventing harm to that person. A good examples of paternalism in everyday life are laws which require seat belts, wearing helmets while riding a motorcycle and banning certain drugs.