Lessons from the Scottish Enlightenment still resonate today

The lecture will consider the environment in which the Scottish Enlightenment flourished. Examining the tolerant Scottish society which allowed for comparative religious freedom and the importance of the international dimension, most notably between Scotland and Continental Europe and Scotland and North America in the 18th Century, Sir Michael will argue that these points still have lessons for 21st century Scotland.

Sir Michael said: The Scottish Enlightenment was an unprecedented era of enquiry, learning and discovery. From mathematics, economics and philosophy to art, literature and architecture, there was scarcely an area of Scottish intellectual and creative life which did not flourish during this period. Yet arguably the defining characteristic of the Scottish Enlightenment was the belief that reason could lead to the creation of a better and more just society. Perhaps this is something we should still aspire to.

Ronnie Bowie, President of the Faculty of Actuaries, said: “The Scottish Enlightenment was crucial in the development of the mathematics which allowed for the creation of actuarial science and the actuarial profession. So it makes for a fitting topic for the Faculty Lecture.

"The Faculty of Actuaries is part of Scotland's rich intellectual tradition, a tradition which has its roots within the Scottish Enlightenment. As the Faculty continues to play an active role within Scotland's civil society, the lessons we can learn from Scotland's history can help us prepare for the challenges of the future."

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Enquiries: Tel. Freya Rodger on 020 7632 1452, or email freya.rodger@actuaries.org.uk

Notes to Editors

1. Actuaries provide commercial, financial and prudential advice on the management of a businesss assets and liabilities, especially where long term management and planning are critical to the success of any business's venture. They also advise individuals, and advise on social and public interest issues.
2. Members of the Profession have a statutory role in the supervision of pension funds and life insurance companies. They also have a statutory role to provide actuarial opinions for managing agents at Lloyds.
3. The Profession is governed jointly by the Faculty of Actuaries in Edinburgh and the Institute of Actuaries in London. A rigorous examination system is supported by a programme of continuing professional development and a professional code of conduct supports high standards reflecting the significant role of the Profession in society.
4. The Profession is available to provide expert comment to the media on a range of actuarial-related issues, including enterprise risk management, finance and investment, general insurance, health and care, life assurance, mortality, and pensions.