Meaning: The quote "Like the winds that we come we know not whence and blow whither soever they list, the forces of society are derived from an obscure and distant origin. They arise before the date of philosophy, from the instincts, not the speculations of men." by Adam Ferguson, a Scottish philosopher, reflects on the mysterious and complex nature of societal forces and their origins. This quote alludes to the idea that the dynamics of society are influenced by forces that are not easily traced or understood, much like the unpredictable nature of the wind.

Adam Ferguson was a key figure in the Scottish Enlightenment, a period of intellectual and scientific growth in Scotland during the 18th century. As a philosopher, Ferguson was interested in the study of society and human nature, and his work often focused on the origins and development of social structures and institutions.

In this quote, Ferguson draws an analogy between the forces of society and the winds, emphasizing their enigmatic origins and unpredictable nature. He suggests that just as the winds come from unknown sources and blow in unpredictable directions, the forces that shape society have similarly obscure and distant origins.

Furthermore, Ferguson highlights the idea that these societal forces precede the development of formal philosophical thought. He argues that they arise from the instincts of people rather than from deliberate intellectual speculations. This notion challenges the belief that societal structures and behaviors are solely the result of conscious, rational decision-making. Instead, Ferguson suggests that they are deeply rooted in human instincts and experiences that predate philosophical contemplation.

Ferguson's perspective aligns with the broader Enlightenment-era discourse on the origins of society and the nature of human behavior. His emphasis on the primacy of instincts over philosophical speculations resonates with the era's interest in understanding the fundamental drivers of human society and culture.

Moreover, Ferguson's quote invites reflection on the intricate interplay between individual agency and broader societal forces. By likening societal forces to the winds, he underscores the idea that while individuals may exert influence on society, they are also subject to the larger, often unseen forces that shape the course of human affairs.

In conclusion, Adam Ferguson's quote encapsulates his philosophical insights into the mysterious origins and dynamics of societal forces. By drawing an analogy between the winds and societal forces, he conveys the idea that these forces are derived from obscure and distant origins, preceding the formal date of philosophy and rooted in human instincts. This quote serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the complex and often enigmatic nature of societal dynamics, inviting further contemplation on the origins and influences that shape human societies.