MILLAR, John.

Inquire · Offered by Peter Harrington

Observations concerning the Distinction of Ranks in Society. First edition of Millar's most important work, "a pioneering attempt at a historical sociology of social authority, taking up, in turn, familial relations, age, work relations, and political and martial leadership" (ODNB)."Of a remarkably liberal tone, Millar's study of social rank covers class distinction, the history and condition of women, primitive society, and the relationship between parent and child, and master and servant" (German, p. 67). The influence of Montesquieu and, particularly, of Hume's The Populousness of Ancient Nations is evident. Millar was a supporter of the American cause and an opponent of slavery; both feature in the final chapter, "Of the condition of servants in different parts of the world".With the armorial bookplate to the front pastedown of George Baillie of Jerviswood (1664-1738), and the signature to the title page of another George Baillie, probably his grandson (1723-1797). The family continued to use the elder Baillie's bookplate despite his death long before the book was published, a fairly common practice. The gilt device of the Golden Fleece used on the spine of the book - and known to be present on a number of volumes from this library - may have been used simply for its symbolic meaning of authority.

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