Hutchinson

Hutchinson, John (1674-1737), philosopher and theologian, born at Spennythorn, in Yorkshire, began his career as steward or agent to sundry peers, but was rendered independent by the Duke of Somerset that he might study physics (especially geology) and divinity. He became the founder of a sect or party which included Bishop Home. He was a strenuous opponent of Newton's theories on vacuum and gravitation, the principles of his "Scripture Philosophy "being a plenum and air, while he ventured on a physical explanation of the doctrine of the Trinity. He founded the collection of fossils now known as the Woodwardian, belonging to the university of Cambridge.