This guided walk explores the exciting Enlightenment world of the natural philosopher and poet Dr. Erasmus Darwin and the Derby Philosophers

Enlightenment Derby II: Erasmus Darwin and the Derby Philosophers

The Derby Philosophers were a group of people with interests in the sciences (or natural philosophy and natural history) associated with the Derby Philosophical Society, founded in 1783 who, inspired by Enlightenment progressivism, their pursuit of natural philosophy and Erasmus Darwin were at the forefront of local improvement and national political campaigns. They included professionals, especially medical men, industrialists and manufacturers, nonconformists ministers and clergy. Touring places associated with the Society, this guided walk introduces the members and their main activities explaining how they formed a large scientific library and provided a forum for philosophical discussion, especially concerning the latest developments in chemistry, electricity and geology. It shows how the Society was part of an Enlightenment and post-Enlightenment network for exchanging of ideas and practices which attracted people from different religious and political affiliations.

Venue: starts outside the front of Derby Local Studies Library (Riverside Chambers, Full Street, DE1 3AF)
Time: 11am-12.30pm
Cost: £10 per person
More information: Enlightenment Derby 11: Erasmus Darwin and the Derby Philosophers