David Hume Statue on Edinburgh's Royal Mile

A Tribute to a Scottish Enlightenment Giant

The David Hume Statue stands prominently on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, outside the High Court building at 379-381 High Street. Sculpted by Alexander "Sandy" Stoddart and unveiled in 1997, the statue depicts Hume as an ancient Greek philosopher, a classical artistic choice that contrasts with his 18th-century Scottish identity. This nine-foot bronze figure reclines thoughtfully, his right foot’s big toe extending over the plinth’s edge, now polished to a golden sheen from centuries of visitors rubbing it for luck or wisdom. Hume’s legacy as a pioneering empiricist philosopher, historian, economist, and skeptic is deeply embedded in Edinburgh’s intellectual heritage, marking him as one of the most influential figures of the Scottish Enlightenment.

Philosophical Legacy and Controversies

David Hume (1711–1776) was a central figure in the Scottish Enlightenment, a period of remarkable intellectual and scientific advancement. His philosophy emphasized empirical observation and skepticism, challenging established religious and metaphysical doctrines. Hume’s writings on human nature, government, and economics have had enduring influence worldwide. However, his legacy is complicated by his documented racist views, particularly in his essay "Of National Characters," where he expressed beliefs in the inherent inferiority of non-white races. These views have sparked ongoing debates about how to reconcile his intellectual contributions with his problematic opinions, prompting discussions about the statue’s role in public memory and historical representation.

Local Traditions and Visitor Experience

The statue has become a beloved local landmark and tourist attraction, with a unique tradition of visitors rubbing Hume’s toe for good fortune. This ritual, ironically, contrasts with Hume’s strong opposition to superstition. The statue’s location outside the High Court has also led to folklore that defendants might touch the toe for luck in their legal cases. Beyond the toe, visitors are encouraged to look behind the statue to see Stoddart’s depiction of Helios, the Greek god of enlightenment, whose head is encircled by snakes symbolizing the fight against anti-intellectualism. The statue’s presence on the Royal Mile situates it amid Edinburgh’s rich historical and cultural tapestry, near landmarks such as St Giles’ Cathedral and the Heart of Midlothian mosaic.

Historical Context and Commemoration

Hume was born and died in Edinburgh, spending much of his life in the city’s Old Town and New Town. Despite his profound impact on philosophy and the intellectual life of Scotland, Hume faced opposition during his lifetime due to his atheism and skepticism, which cost him academic positions. His burial site is in Old Calton Cemetery, marked by a modest tomb designed by architect Robert Adam, reflecting Hume’s wish for simplicity. The statue, by contrast, is a grand public acknowledgment of his enduring influence, though it also serves as a focal point for contemporary reflections on the complexities of historical figures.

Artistic and Symbolic Elements

Artist Alexander Stoddart’s design intentionally blends classical imagery with Hume’s Scottish identity, presenting him in philosopher’s robes reminiscent of ancient Greece. The statue’s size and detailed craftsmanship make it a striking visual landmark on the Royal Mile. The polished toe has become a tactile symbol of connection between visitors and Hume’s intellectual legacy, while the nearby Helios figure adds layers of meaning about enlightenment and the struggle against ignorance. The statue’s placement in front of the High Court building also underscores Hume’s engagement with law and government theory.

Engaging with the Statue Today

Today, the David Hume Statue invites visitors to reflect on the Scottish Enlightenment’s profound contributions to modern thought, as well as the ongoing challenges of interpreting historical legacies. It stands as both a celebration and a conversation starter, encouraging thoughtful engagement with Hume’s philosophy and the ethical questions raised by his controversial views. The statue’s location on the bustling Royal Mile ensures it remains a vital part of Edinburgh’s cultural and historical landscape, drawing scholars, tourists, and locals alike.