David Hume's Lucky Toe (Alyssa's Hand)

A philosopher, economist, historian and, according to a recent poll of academics, voted as one of the figures who has made the greatest impact on Scotland in the last one-thousand years, David Hume is an eminent figure of the Scottish Enlightenment.
Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Hume received his degree in Philosophy at the University of Edinburgh at the early age of 12. A couple years down the road, Hume began writing some of his most famous books, such as Major Works: A Treatise of Human Nature, An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals and The Enquires concerning Human Understanding.

Today a statue of Hume sits near the Royal Mile on High Street. The statue, or the statue’s toe, is famous for being a lucky charm. The statue draws those who hope the famous philosopher’s wisdom will rub off on them. Visitors rub Hume’s right toe, which is now so worn from the years of knowledge seekers, that it’s in danger of falling off all together.

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