Professor of Moral Philosophy (Glasgow) facts for kids
The Chair of Moral Philosophy is a special teaching position at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. It was created way back in 1727. A 'Chair' means a very important professor who leads a specific subject, and 'Moral Philosophy' is all about studying what is right and wrong, and how people should live.
What is Moral Philosophy?
Moral philosophy is a branch of philosophy that explores big questions about right and wrong. It looks at how we should make choices and what makes a good life. Think of it as a way to understand our actions and the world around us.
History of the Chair
For a long time, subjects like Moral Philosophy, Logic, and Natural Philosophy were taught together. This was done by teachers called Regents. In 1727, the University of Glasgow decided to create separate, dedicated teaching positions. This is when the Chair of Moral Philosophy was officially established.
Professors of Moral Philosophy
Many important thinkers have held this special position. They have taught students and shared their ideas about how we should live. Here are some of the professors who have held the Chair:
- Gershom Carmichael (1727)
- Francis Hutcheson (1730)
- Thomas Craigie (1746)
- Adam Smith (1752) - A very famous economist and philosopher.
- Thomas Reid (1764)
- Archibald Arthur (1796)
- James Mylne (1797)
- William Fleming (1839)
- Edward Caird (1866)
- Sir Henry Jones
- Alexander Dunlop Lindsay (1922)
- Sir Hector Hetherington (1924)
- Archibald Allan Bowman (1927)
- Sir Oliver Shewell Franks (1936)
- William Gauld Maclagan (1946)
- Robert Silcock Downie (1969-2000)
- Alan Brian Carter (2005-2011)
- Glen Pettigrove (2017–present)