Young, Arthur

About the author

Arthur Young FRS (1741–1820) was one of the most influential agronomists and economic writers of the 18th century. His works had a significant impact on the development of agriculture and agrarian policy in Britain and Europe. Here are some additional facts about him:

Education and Early Life:

Arthur Young was born into a clergyman’s family in Suffolk, England. He was educated at King’s College, Cambridge, but did not complete his studies, choosing instead to focus on family affairs and agriculture. His early attempts at farming were not very successful, which motivated him to study agriculture more deeply and systematically.

Travels and Research:

Young was not just a theorist—he actively traveled to observe agricultural practices in different countries:

• Great Britain: He extensively studied agriculture in England, Wales, and Scotland.
• Ireland: His work "A Tour in Ireland" (1776–1779) became a valuable source of information about the state of Irish agriculture and society.
• France: "Travels in France" (1792) is another of his famous works, written during his journeys through France on the eve of the French Revolution. He observed social changes and the agrarian system, offering a unique perspective on French society at that time.

Contributions to Agronomy:

Arthur Young was one of the first to systematically study the effects of different agricultural methods on crop yields. He promoted innovations such as:

• Crop rotation and improved drainage systems.
• The use of fertilizers to enhance soil fertility.
• The improvement of livestock breeds and cultivated plants.

Public Activities:

• He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) for his contributions to science.
• He served as secretary of the Board of Agriculture in Britain, actively participating in the development of agricultural policies.

Writing Style and Influence:

Young had a clear and accessible writing style, combining personal observations with economic analysis. His works were valued for their accuracy and critical approach to issues such as poverty, inefficient land use, and social inequality.

Notable Works:

• "The Farmer’s Calendar" (1771) — a practical guide for farmers.
• "Travels in France" (1792) — an important source on pre-revolutionary France.
• "A Tour in Ireland" (1780) — a detailed description of Irish agriculture.

Interesting Facts:

• He was a contemporary and sometimes a critic of economists like Adam Smith, although he shared some ideas about free trade.
• His observations of the French Revolution proved valuable not only for agricultural science but also for historians and sociologists.

Arthur Young left a rich legacy, demonstrating how systematic research and the exchange of knowledge can change not only science but also society as a whole.