Dublin Philosophical Society

It held its first meeting on 15 October 1683[4] within the Provost's lodgings at Trinity College Dublin, however it is thought to have existed from sometime in September 1683.

[5] Having garnered a significant reputation of studious diligence, on 18 December 1683, then Provost Robert Huntington acting on behalf of the society wrote to Robert Plot of the Royal Society asking for assistance in printing the papers of its members.

[7] The society struggled greatly during the Revolution of 1688, a time which during few meetings took place, but papers were still presented to members.

[5] Having been at what seems the centre of learned culture in 17th century Dublin, the society boasted many historically famous members.

Dating of the society's sessions are counted from 1 November 1684, due to the first elections of officers taking place at that time.

John Rutty, Dr. Hugh Hamilton (uncle to later University Philosophical Society Patron George Alexander Hamilton), David MacBride, George Cleghorn, all of whom had delivered several papers to the Dublin Philosophical Society[14] and continued the practice of paper reading.

The Royal Irish Academy founded in 1785, drew the inspiration for its creation from the society.

William Molyneux , founding member of the society.
Plaque marking the site of the first meeting of the Dublin Philosophical Society
William Petty , first elected President of the Society.
Jonathan Swift , member of the society.
George Berkeley , who presented a paper entitled "Of Infinites", in November 1707.
Thomas Prior , member after the society's revival in the early 18th Century.
Franc Sadlier, Provost of Trinity College, and Senior Patron of the society upon its restoration.