Dugald Stewart's Empire of the Mind: Moral Education in the late Scottish Enlightenment

Dugald Stewart's Empire of the Mind explores the cultivation of a democratic intellect in the late Scottish Enlightenment, focusing on moral education during a transitional period of revolutionary change. He transformed the Scottish school of philosophy by teaching it at the University of Edinburgh, fostering an empire of the mind in the universal pursuit of happiness.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Dugald Stewart's Empire of the Mind is a groundbreaking exploration of the cultivation of a democratic intellect during the late Scottish Enlightenment. Spanning a transformative period from 1772 to 1828, this intellectual history delves into the significance of moral education amidst revolutionary change. Stewart, a child of the Scottish Enlightenment, inherited the rich tradition of teaching metaphysics as moral philosophy from the tutelage of Adam Ferguson and Thomas Reid. However, the aftermath of the French Revolution brought about a significant shift in the intellectual culture of his youth. Undeterred, Stewart dedicated himself to preserving the Scottish school of philosophy by revolutionizing its teaching approach as professor of moral philosophy at the University of Edinburgh. His fundamental system of moral education fostered an empire of the mind, empowering individuals to pursue happiness on a universal scale.

In this book, we delve into the democratization of Stewart's didactic Enlightenment in the context of a globalizing, interconnected nineteenth-century knowledge economy. We examine how Stewart's ideas spread and influenced the development of moral education in various parts of the world, challenging traditional hierarchies and promoting a more inclusive and equitable approach to learning. Through his visionary teachings, Stewart aimed to empower individuals with the tools they needed to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world and to cultivate a sense of moral responsibility and empathy.

Empire of the Mind is a seminal work that sheds light on the profound impact of education on shaping individuals and societies. It reminds us of the importance of nurturing a democratic intellect and promoting moral growth in an ever-evolving world. Stewart's legacy continues to inspire and influence educators and thinkers worldwide, as we strive to create a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 223 x 140 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192865380