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Did Sir Isaac Newton support slavery?
I know that he was a shareholder in the South Sea Company which traded African slaves, but he was also quoted as stating, when asked about the continuance of the rising South Sea stock, "I can calculate the movement of the stars, but not the madness of men." So, did he support slavery or not, or did he not support it but not look down upon it either? Thanks in advance.
4 Answers
- staisilLv 77 years ago
I can find no reference about Newton being for or against slavery. He was just trying to make more money by investing in the South Sea Company. Newton actually lost 20 thousand pounds.
- 6 years ago
Originally that company was not intended for slaves. And in actuality the board of directors were hesitant in taking on the slave trade but finally relented due to pressure from abroad. The object of that company was not slaving.
- Anonymous7 years ago
If he were truly against it he would have sold his shares. I count that as tacit approval at least.
