Adam Ferguson (1723-1816) was a Scottish philosopher and historian, known for his contributions to social theory and the study of human society. He is often regarded as one of the founders of modern sociology. Ferguson's most notable work, An Essay on the History of Civil Society, explores the development of societies and the impact of social institutions on human behavior. Ferguson was also a prominent figure in the Scottish Enlightenment, a period marked by intellectual and cultural advancements in Scotland. His ideas on the importance of civil society and the role of individuals within it influenced later thinkers, including Alexis de Tocqueville and Karl Marx.