: xvi In 1759 Ferguson became professor of natural philosophy in the University of Edinburgh, and in 1764 transferred to the chair of "pneumatics" ( mental philosophy) "and moral philosophy". He continued attached to the regiment till 1754, when, disappointed at not obtaining a living, he left the clergy and resolved to devote himself to literary pursuits.Īfter residing in Leipzig for a time, he returned to Edinburgh where in January 1757 he succeeded David Hume as librarian to the Faculty of Advocates (see Advocates' Library), but soon relinquished this office on becoming tutor in the family of the Earl of Bute. Nevertheless, he certainly did well, becoming principal chaplain in 1746. It remains a matter of debate as to whether, at the Battle of Fontenoy (1745), Ferguson fought in the ranks throughout the day, and refused to leave the field, though ordered to do so by his colonel. In 1745, owing to his knowledge of Gaelic, he gained appointment as deputy chaplain of the 43rd (afterwards the 42nd) regiment (the Black Watch), the licence to preach being granted him by special dispensation, although he had not completed the required six years of theological study. His best-known work is his Essay on the History of Civil Society.īorn at Logierait in Atholl, Perthshire, Scotland, the son of Rev Adam Ferguson, he received his education at Logierait Parish School, Perth Grammar School, and at the University of Edinburgh and the University of St Andrews (MA 1742).
Ferguson has been called "the father of modern sociology" for his contributions to the early development of the discipline. He criticized commercial society as making men weak, dishonourable and unconcerned for their community. 1723 – 22 February 1816), was a Scottish philosopher and historian of the Scottish Enlightenment.įerguson was sympathetic to traditional societies, such as the Highlands, for producing courage and loyalty.
The grave of Adam Ferguson, St Andrews Cathedral churchyardĪdam Ferguson, FRSE ( Scottish Gaelic: Adhamh MacFhearghais), also known as Ferguson of Raith (1 July N.S./20 June O.S.
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