Lot 699
Reid, Thomas
Rare Books, Manuscripts & Photographs
Auction: Rare Books, Manuscripts & Photographss | 10 May 2007
Description
Essays on the active powers of man. Edinburgh: John Bell, London: G.G.J & J. Robinson, 1787, first edition, 4to, half-title, advertisement leaf at end, contemporary calf, red morocco label
Footnote
Note: Reid, professor of moral philosophy in the University of Glasgow, has been described as "the most complete example of a realist philosopher, and the forerunner of a line of British philosophers of whom G.E. Moore and Bertrand Russell are the most distinguished examples in the twentieth century... Reid was contemptuous of philosophical subtleties which impeded the operation of scientific observation and common sense." (R.W. Harris: Reason and nature in 18th century thought)
Provenance: Fort Augustus library bookplate.