William Richardson was an 18th-century Scottish philosopher known for his contributions to the field of moral philosophy. He is best recognized for his work titled "An Essay on the Nature and Principles of Taste," published in 1774, where he explored the relationship between aesthetics and ethics. His ideas influenced later thinkers and contributed to discussions on the nature of beauty and human perception. Richardson was also associated with the Scottish Enlightenment, a period marked by significant advancements in philosophy, science, and the arts. His writings reflect the intellectual climate of his time, engaging with themes of empiricism and the role of human experience in shaping knowledge.