Speculative Society

A student debating society at the University of Edinburgh, founded in 1764 by six students during the Scottish Enlightenment. Its purpose was the improvement of literary composition and public speaking, through the reading and discussion of papers and formal debates on subjects including history, politics, law, and literature. Membership was limited, election was by ballot, and participation was compulsory. The Society became an important training ground for Edinburgh’s future lawyers, politicians, writers, and other public figures, and continues today.