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The Scottish Enlightenment

The Scots’ Invention of the Modern World
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Scottish Enlightenment by Arthur Herman explores the profound intellectual movement in 18th-century Scotland that influenced modern science, literature, education, and philosophy. It delves into the lives and ideas of key figures like David Hume and Adam Smith, showcasing how their contributions shaped the modern world.
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Format: Paperback / softback

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might like this book if you're fascinated by how a small group of Scottish thinkers in the 18th century sparked revolutionary ideas in philosophy, economics, and science that shaped the modern world. It offers a blend of intellectual history and engaging narrative, ideal for those who appreciate stories of profound cultural and scientific transformations.

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The Scottish Enlightenment

A history of how Scotland produced the institutions, beliefs and human character that have made the West into the most powerful culture in the world.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Scottish Enlightenment by Arthur Herman delves into the extraordinary transformation of Scotland from a land dominated by the rigid Scottish Kirk to one of the most enlightened and progressive societies in Europe. Taking readers on a captivating journey through the 18th century, Herman illustrates how a nation, once shackled by religious and political oppression, evolved to become a beacon of intellectual and cultural advancement. This remarkable metamorphosis gave birth to a modernity that has tremendously shaped Western civilisation.

Arthur Herman meticulously traces the roots of Scotland's "miracle," examining the turbulent history marked by influential figures like William Wallace and the Presbyterian Lords of the Covenant. He posits that these historical struggles laid the groundwork for the country's cultural and intellectual flourishing. With a blend of compelling narrative and in-depth research, Herman brings to life a cast of pivotal thinkers and creators who were central to this revolution.

The book highlights the remarkable contributions of luminaries such as Adam Smith, whose economic theories laid the foundation for modern capitalism, and David Hume, whose philosophical inquiries challenged and expanded the boundaries of human understanding. It also covers the lasting literary achievements of poets like Robert Burns and diarists like James Boswell.

Beyond the philosophers and writers, The Scottish Enlightenment sheds light on the architects, technicians, and inventors who propelled Scotland to the forefront of the Industrial Revolution. These individuals' collective legacy is explored extensively, illustrating how their innovations and ideas permeated into the 20th century and beyond.

Through Herman's engaging prose, readers gain a deep appreciation for the profound impact of Scotland's Enlightenment on the emergence of modern Western culture. The book is a testament to how a small nation, through the power of intellect and creativity, significantly altered the course of history.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Scottish Enlightenment by Arthur Herman is praised for its engaging narrative, lively storytelling, and readability. Critics appreciate its stimulating content and the compelling presentation of the author's thesis, supported by substantial evidence.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781841152769

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 02 January 2003

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Fourth Estate Ltd

Audience: Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 29.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 320g

Pages: 480

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About the Author

Arthur Herman received his Ph.D. from the Johns Hopkins University. He has been professor of history at both George Mason and Georgetown Universities and is now Co-ordinator at the Smithsonian's Western Heritage Programme. His books include The Idea of Decline in Western History.

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