December 23rd, 1814
Samuel Madden, (23 December 1686 – 31 December 1765) was a notable Irish author, economist, and philanthropist of the 18th century, born on December 23, 1686, in Dublin, Ireland. His contributions spanned various fields, reflecting a diverse range of interests and talents
His works include Themistocles; The Lover of His Country, Reflections and Resolutions Proper for the Gentlemen of Ireland, and Memoirs of the Twentieth Century. Dr. Samuel Johnson wrote of him, “His was a name which Ireland ought to honour”. He suggested that the Royal Dublin Society initiate a scheme to fund improvements in agriculture and arts in Ireland via the use of premiums – the source of his nickname Premium.
Literary Contributions
Madden was a writer with interests in both fiction and non-fiction. His works often dealt with philosophical and economic themes, reflective of the intellectual currents of his time.
Economic Thought
As an economist, Madden was ahead of his time. He contemplated ideas that would later be central to economic theory. His thoughts on capital, labor, and the role of economic incentives were particularly noteworthy.
Philanthropy
Madden was deeply committed to philanthropy and social improvement. He used his resources and influence to support various charitable causes and educational initiatives. His philanthropic efforts were driven by a belief in the potential for social and economic improvement.
Support for Education
One of Madden’s most significant contributions was his support for education in Ireland. He was a key figure in the early history of the Royal Dublin Society, an organization dedicated to the improvement of agriculture, arts, industry, and science in Ireland.
“Madden’s Premiums”
He is perhaps best remembered for founding “Madden’s Premiums” at Trinity College Dublin. These were monetary awards given to students for writings on scientific and philosophical topics, aimed at stimulating intellectual development and research.
Cultural Impact
Madden’s work in literature and economics, combined with his philanthropic activities, had a significant impact on Irish society. He was part of a broader movement of Enlightenment thinkers in Ireland who sought to promote knowledge, economic development, and social progress.
Legacy
Samuel Madden is remembered as a key figure in Irish intellectual history, a man whose diverse interests and activities reflected the dynamic and evolving nature of 18th-century thought.
Works
- Themistocles, The Lover of His Country. A Tragedy. As it is Acted at the Theatre-Royal, in Lincoln’s-Inn-Fields (1729)
- Memoirs of the Twentieth Century,: Being original letters of state under George the Sixth (1733)
- Reflections and Resolutions Proper for the Gentlemen of Ireland, as to their Conduct for the Service of their Country, as Landlords, as Masters of Families, as Protestants, as Descended from British Ancestors, as Country Gentlemen and Farmers, as Justices of the Peace, as Merchants, as Members of Parliament (1738)
- The reign of George VI. 1900–1925: A forecast written in the year 1763 (1763) A Proposal for the General Encouragement of Learning in Trinity College (publication unknown)
- Memoir of the life of the late Rev. Peter Roe: With copious extracts from his correspondence, diaries, and other remains (publication unknown)
Madden’s life and work exemplify the intersection of intellectual, economic, and philanthropic pursuits in the early modern period. His contributions to economic thought, combined with his efforts in education and philanthropy, have left a lasting impact on Irish cultural and academic life.
