James Stuart (cleric)

James Stuart (1741-1815) was a Scottish clergyman and writer. Born in Edinburgh, he was educated at the University of Edinburgh before being ordained as a minister in the Church of Scotland. He served as the minister of Cramond Parish Church from 1777 until his death.

Stuart was a moderately influential figure in the Scottish Enlightenment, though less well-known than some of his contemporaries. He was a proponent of moderate theology and emphasized the importance of reason and morality in religious life. He was known for his eloquence as a preacher and for his pastoral care of his parishioners.

His published works include several sermons and theological essays. While not particularly innovative, they reflect the prevailing intellectual currents of the time and offer insights into the religious and social attitudes of late 18th and early 19th century Scotland. He contributed to the Statistical Account of Scotland, providing a detailed description of the parish of Cramond. His work is valued by historians for its detailed account of the local economy, social structures, and customs. Stuart was also a member of several literary and philosophical societies in Edinburgh. He was married and had several children.