This volume is an indispensable source for Hume scholars, historians of the period and anyone interested in how Hume’s extensive writings were received in America from 1758 – 1850. Most of the 125 extracts will be unknown and inaccessible to the majority of readers. Largely for religious, political and linguistic reasons there was much closer engagement with Hume’s writings on religion and history by American commentators than by continental European writers, and Spencer here provides impeccably documented quotations and references. First published in 2002, this enlarged and corrected paper-back version is a splendid achievement.

- Peter Jones, Emeritus Professor of Philosophy, University of Edinburgh, UK,

For anyone doubting Hume's profound importance as a philosopher, historian and political thinker in the age of the Enlightenment, Spencer's unparalleled run of evidence for his wide-ranging contemporary American reception ought to be regarded as conclusive proof.

- David Allan, Reader in Scottish History, University of St Andrews, UK,

Made available for the first time in an affordable paperback edition, Spencer’s outstanding anthology of printed responses to the works of David Hume is a primary point of reference for scholars and students interested in the American Enlightenment. One of the most striking revelations – reinforced by 38 newly discovered primary sources added to this new edition – is that Hume remained a central part of American periodical culture well into the nineteenth century.

- Mark R. M. Towsey, Senior Lecturer in Modern British History, University of Liverpool, UK,