James Hutton: The Genius of Time

James Hutton was a Scottish Enlightenment giant who revolutionized the way we think about the Earth's formation and laid the foundation for geology. He was a doctor, farmer, businessman, chemist, and philosopher, publishing papers on diverse subjects. Despite his achievements, his story remains a mystery, with his papers, library, and mineral collection vanished after his death, and only a handful of letters surviving. This book uses new sources and original documents to bring Hutton the man to life and places him among the geniuses of his time.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2022
Publisher: Birlinn General

James Hutton, a prominent figure in the Scottish Enlightenment, is often overshadowed by his contemporaries. However, his groundbreaking Theory of the Earth revolutionized our understanding of the planet's formation and established the field of geology. Hutton, a versatile individual, held the roles of a doctor, farmer, businessman, and chemist, but he considered himself a philosopher, driven by a quest for truth. He was close friends with James Watt and Adam Smith and was known for his polymathic pursuits, publishing papers on a wide range of subjects, from the causes of rain to a theory of language. Despite his diverse interests, Hutton remained humble and shunned official positions and societal conventions. He retained his strong Scots accent and colloquial speech, loved humor, and had the ability to create a lively atmosphere even in empty rooms.

However, much about Hutton's life remains shrouded in mystery. After his death, his papers, library, and mineral collection disappeared, leaving only a handful of letters as surviving evidence. He was known to be a lifelong bachelor, yet he had a secret son whom he supported throughout his life.

This book aims to shed light on the life and achievements of James Hutton by utilizing new sources and original documents. It seeks to place him firmly among the geniuses of his time and provides a comprehensive account of his contributions to science and society. Through his remarkable story, Hutton emerges as a fascinating and complex figure, whose legacy continues to inspire and influence scientists and scholars to this day.

Weight: 534g
Dimension: 164 x 240 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781780277851