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Alexander GerardScottish writer and philosopher
Date of Birth: 22.02.1728
Country:  Great Britain |
Early Life and Education
Academic CareerLiterary Contributions
Hume's Influence
Born into a well-to-do family in Edinburgh, Thomas Reid received his early education at the University of Glasgow. He then proceeded to Marischal College, Aberdeen, where he earned a Master's degree in Arts and later served as Professor of Natural Philosophy and Divinity. Following his ordination as a minister in the Church of Scotland, Reid became one of the ministers of the city of Aberdeen.
Reid's academic career was marked by his keen interest in the philosophy of David Hume. While initially an admirer of Hume's empiricism, Reid eventually came to question its skeptical implications. In 1756, his critical examination of Hume's theories was recognized when he was awarded the prize of the Royal Society of Edinburgh for his two essays, "Essay on Taste" and "Essay on Genius."
Reid's literary contributions extended beyond his philosophical writings. He authored several works on politics, economics, and psychology. His political writings advocated for a moderate approach, seeking a balance between the competing interests of individuals and the state. In the realm of economics, he supported the principles of free trade and the division of labor.
Reid's influence on philosophy is primarily attributed to his critique of Hume's skepticism. He argued that Hume's denial of objective knowledge and the existence of the external world was untenable. Reid emphasized the importance of common sense and the intuitive beliefs that underpin human cognition. His ideas paved the way for the development of the Scottish School of Common Sense philosophy, which became a significant movement in the 18th and 19th centuries.
