Scottish Enlightenment: Human Nature, Social Theory and Moral Philosophy: Essays in Honour of Christopher Berry

The Scottish Enlightenment significantly shaped modernity through its pioneering ideas about commercial society, science of human nature, and modern political economy, as explored in this collection of essays.

Format: Hardback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

The Scottish Enlightenment was a period of immense intellectual and cultural growth that had a profound impact on modernity. This collection of 11 specially commissioned essays explores the transformative contribution of the Scottish Enlightenment to modernity by examining three central themes: the Scots pioneering conception of commercial society, the equally pioneering development of the Scots science of human nature, and the emergence of the modern political economy.

The Scots pioneering conception of commercial society was a key aspect of the Scottish Enlightenment. The Scots believed that the economy was not just about making money but also about creating a society that was fair, just, and prosperous. They developed a system of free trade and capitalism that allowed for the growth of industry and commerce. This system was based on the idea that individuals should be free to pursue their own interests and that the government should not interfere in the economy.

The Scots science of human nature was also a major contribution of the Scottish Enlightenment. The Scots believed that human beings were capable of reason and that they could use this reason to improve their lives. They developed a system of philosophy and psychology that focused on the study of human behavior and the development of moral principles. This system was based on the idea that individuals should be treated with respect and dignity and that they should be allowed to pursue their own goals and aspirations.

The emergence of the modern political economy was another significant contribution of the Scottish Enlightenment. The Scots believed that the government should play a role in regulating the economy and that it should provide for the welfare of its citizens. They developed a system of government that was based on the principles of democracy and individual rights. This system was based on the idea that individuals should have the right to vote and that the government should be accountable to the people.

The Scottish Enlightenment had a significant impact on the world. It helped to create a society that was more prosperous, more just, and more democratic. It also helped to establish the principles of free trade and capitalism that are still in use today. However, the Scottish Enlightenment also had its critics. Some people believed that the Scots were too focused on the economy and that they did not pay enough attention to the social and cultural aspects of society.

In conclusion, the Scottish Enlightenment was a period of immense intellectual and cultural growth that had a profound impact on modernity. It helped to create a society that was more prosperous, more just, and more democratic. It also helped to establish the principles of free trade and capitalism that are still in use today. However, the Scottish Enlightenment also had its critics. It is important to continue to study the Scottish Enlightenment and to learn from its lessons.

Weight: 548g
Dimension: 162 x 240 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474467315