This book is unique in that it provides the first-ever substantial account of the seven-centuries-old Scottish philosophical tradition. The book focuses on a number of philosophers in the period from the later-thirteenth century until the mid- twentieth and attends especially to some brilliantly original texts. The book also indicates ways in which philosophy has been intimately related to other aspects of Scotland's culture. Among the greatest philosophers that Scotland has produced are John Duns Scotus, Francis Hutcheson, David Hume, Adam Smith and Thomas Reid. But there were many other fine, even brilliant philosophers who are less highly regarded, if they are noticed at all, such as John Mair, George Lokert, Frederick Ferrier, Andrew Seth, Norman Kemp Smith and John Macmurray. All these thinkers and many others are discussed in these pages. This clearly written and approachable book gives us a strong sense of the Scottish philosophical tradition.

"Broadie’s book is impressive in many ways… Scottish philosophy … has been rich and sophisticated for some seven centuries – arguably one of the longest periods of relatively sustained investigations of any peoples in the world. Alexander Broadie is to be thanked for vividly reminding us of this remarkable achievement." - Journal of Scottish Philosophy

"The summaries of the different philosophical positions are lucid, balanced, and fair. They provide very useful introductions to the thought of the philosophers discussed in the book. Someone interested in the background of Hume and Reid and looking for a first orientation could do a lot worse than consulting this book." - Journal of the History of Philosophy

"...it's fascinating to chart the history of Scotland's contribution to philosophy ... there is no sense of unevenness or disproportion in Broadie's meticulous work." - Scottish Review of Books

"It's fascinating to chart the history of Scotland's contribution to philosophy ... there is no sense of unevenness or disproportion in Broadie's meticulous work." - Scottish Review of Books

"This is an important and impressive book... The extent of his research and the depth of his erudition is impressive." - The Herald

"[A] magisterial study...Today's philosophers in Scottish universities should make a point of reading Broadie's wise and wonderful book. They cannot fail to learn from it." - The Scotsman

"[A] magisterial study...Today's philosophers in Scottish universities should make a point of reading Broadie's wise and wonderful book. They cannot fail to learn from it." - The Scotsman