Political Activities and Concern with Public Affairs

Abstract

Both Tytler and Ramsay leave us with the impression that Kames was reluctant to engage in political activities or even to discuss political questions openly with his friends and associates. In fact, Tytler tells us that he “was never disposed willingly to engage [in the discussion of] topics of a political nature,” and that in fact “that sort of discourse… was peculiarly distasteful to him.” ¹ If by “politics” was meant partisan politics and the survivals of the old dynastic rivalries, or meddling in political affairs of no great issue or for personal gain or power, he was no doubt right — these having “generally the effect of kindling the passions.”

In whatever form they appeared, and by whom ever made, he combatted [fraud and political corruption] with great spirit and force.

... it was confessed on all hands that Lord Kames acted upon disinterested motives, believing that the schemes patronized by him would promote the prosperity of his country.

[Kames] was none of those who could be idle when his country was in flame. (All from Ramsay)