The Select Society
Scottish intellectual society fostering Enlightenment ideas through debate, lectures, and publications.
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Funding
Philosophies
Vibes
Narrative
The Select Society, established in 1754, was born from a desire among Edinburgh's intellectual elite to foster improvement and progress in Scotland. It functioned as a debating club and a platform for lectures, bringing together diverse minds from law, medicine, philosophy, and commerce. This interdisciplinary exchange in a formal yet intellectually vibrant setting, coupled with its commitment to publishing important works, created a unique 'scenius' that directly contributed to the Scottish Enlightenment.
Its methodology emphasized rigorous discussion and the practical application of Enlightenment principles, aiming to elevate Scotland's cultural and economic standing.
Key People
Founders
- Allan Ramsay the Younger
Key Members
- David Hume
- Adam Smith
- Lord Kames (Henry Home)
- Adam Ferguson
- William Robertson
- John Home
- Alexander Carlyle
- James Boswell
- John Millar
Breakthroughs
- Fostering the Scottish Enlightenment: Provided a crucial interdisciplinary forum for the exchange, development, and dissemination of ideas that significantly shaped and propelled the Scottish Enlightenment (mid-18th century).
- Encouraging Practical Improvements: Initiated and debated projects aimed at advancing agriculture, industry, and infrastructure in Scotland, promoting economic and societal progress (mid-18th century).
- Edinburgh Review (early version): Established an early periodical for critical intellectual discourse and the dissemination of new ideas, serving as a precursor to later influential publications (1755).
Related Entities
Influenced
- Scottish Enlightenment: Served as a vital intellectual hub and catalyst for the flourishing of Enlightenment thought and practical application in Scotland.
Spawned
- Edinburgh Literary Society: Formed by several members to continue and deepen literary and intellectual pursuits.
- Edinburgh Review (1755): An early publication project initiated by members, focused on critical review and intellectual discussion.
Composed Of Members From
- University of Edinburgh: Many key members were professors or had strong academic ties to the university, enriching the society's intellectual depth.