John Playfair
1748–1819 (age 71)
Biography
John Playfair combined the discipline of mathematics with the wonders of physics, publishing works that clarified natural philosophy and championed James Hutton’s understanding of Earth's history.
He taught with warmth, bringing students together to share in his enthusiasm for geometry and the study of mountains; his memorial near Old Calton Burial Ground marks the esteem in which he was held.