Book description
Edited and Introduced by Alexander Broadie. The Scottish Enlightenment
is one of the great achievements of European culture. In philosophy,
law, economics, politics, linguistics and the physical sciences, Scots
were key players in changing the way the world was viewed. And this
explosion of activity still reverberates. It was the age of David Hume,
Thomas Reid and Adam Smith, of Adam Ferguson, James Hutton and Sir John
Sinclair. In his authoritative introduction, Alexander Broadie
emphasises not only the diversity of intellectual discussion taking
place in this small country located on the outer edge of Europe, but
also the European dimension of this Scottish movement. After the general
introduction, the anthology is arranged thematically - Human Nature,
Ethics, Aesthetics, Religion, Economics, Social Theory and Politics,
Law, Historiography, Language and Science. These sections gather
together well-known and lesser-known writings of the time. Much of the
material has not been reprinted since the 18th century. Those with an
interest in the Scottish cultural tradition will find many things to
hold their attention in this unique book. 'Provides generous extracts
from key works and masterly brief introductions.' Economist 'A major
contribution to our literature and intellectual resources and I do not
think it could be better done . . . For many people this book will
become a companion for years or even a lifetime.' Scotsman
