David Hume Books
David Hume was a Scottish philosopher, historian, economist, and diplomat who’s remembered mostly for his radical philosophical empiricism. Often considered the greatest philosopher to have written in the English language, Hume is one of the key figures of the Enlightenment, and, indeed, the entire Western philosophical tradition. Another key Enlightenment thinker, Immanuel Kant, later credited Hume with waking him from his “dogmatic slumber.”
What's An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding about?
An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding (1748) presents a succinct summary of Hume’s empirical and skeptical philosophy, and is one of the most influential texts of the early modern period. In calling for the use of reason in rejecting the “superstitions” of metaphysical philosophy and religion, this text helped to furnish the philosophical basis for the scientific method that was then coming to prominence in Enlightenment Europe. Even today, Hume’s Enquiry remains one of the best introductions to modern philosophy.
Who should read An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding?
- Philosophy students looking for an introduction to Hume’s most important ideas
- Rationalists who want to sharpen their reasoning skills
- Anyone interested in the classics of Western philosophy
What's A Treatise of Human Nature about?
A Treatise of Human Nature (1740) is a seminal work of philosophy that seeks to understand human nature through reason. With razor-sharp skepticism, it dissects the origins of our ideas, the nature of causality, and the concept of personal identity, arguing that humans are guided by passion over reason. Laying bare the limits of human knowledge and morality, this philosophical classic forever altered the landscape of Western thought.
Who should read A Treatise of Human Nature?
- Philosophy students seeking to understand foundational ideas in empiricism and skepticism
- Scholars of the Enlightenment era interested in one of its key figures
- Critical thinkers drawn to works that challenge established beliefs and methods of reasoning
Of the Standard of Taste
What's Of the Standard of Taste about?
Of the Standard of Taste by David Hume explores the concept of beauty and the criteria by which we judge art. Hume delves into the subjectivity of taste and argues that there are certain universal principles that underpin our aesthetic judgments. Through thought-provoking analysis and compelling arguments, Hume challenges our understanding of art and offers valuable insights into the nature of beauty.
Who should read Of the Standard of Taste?
Individuals with a passion for art and aesthetics
Art critics and scholars seeking a deeper understanding of taste and beauty
Curious minds interested in exploring the nature of subjective judgments in the realm of art