Why did so many European luminaries who had lived through the
turmoil of the French Revolution turn to Scotland as a state that
might represent a model for the future of the world? In this
Inaugural Lecture, Professor Richard Whatmore explains why so many
figures at the end of the eighteenth century felt that the
Enlightenment had failed, and that a new beginning was necessary in
politics, economics, religion and culture. Europe had been torn
apart by war and revolution; Scotland appeared to offer grounds for
optimism, being characterised by economic development, religious
peace and a distinctive sense of identity.
About the Podcast
Recordings from the popular public lecture series featuring new work on all aspects of intellectual history. Hosted by the Institute of Intellectual History at the University of St Andrews.