Hume: A Very Short IntroductionHume is one of the greatest of all British philosophers, and even in his own lifetime was celebrated as one of the pivotal figures of the Enlightenment. A central theme of his philosophy is the conviction that questions traditionally thought of as completely independent of the scientific realmDSquestions about the mind, about morality, and about God, for exampleDSare actually best explained using the experimental methods characteristic of the natural sciences. Hume's 'naturalist' approach to a wide variety of philosophical topics resulted in highly original theories about perception, self-identity, causation, morality, politics, and religion, all of which are discussed in this stimulating introduction by A J Ayer, himself one of the twentieth century's most important philosophers. Ayer also gives an account of Hume's fascinating life and character, and includes generous quotations from Hume's lucid and often witty writings. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable. |
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A. C. Grayling A. J. Ayer Abstract accepted according actions actual impressions Adam Smith appear argues argument from design assumption attribute ball Berkeley Berkeley’s body called causal cause and effect character conceived concept conclusion continu’d continued d’Alembert David Hume depends distinct existence doubt Edinburgh Enquiry Essays evidence example factual inference feeling force H. H. Price Human Nature Hume’s argument Hume’s theory ideas identity images imagination imply instance Kant Kemp Smith Locke logical Malise Ruthven matters of fact mind moral judgements moral philosophy motives natural beliefs necessary connection never Norman Kemp Smith observer one’s particular passions past experience perceive perceptions person Peter Singer Philip Ball physical objects possible premiss principle probability proposition published qualities question reason reference relation remarks resemble Roger Scruton Rousseau sceptical sense sense-field sensibilia sentiment spatial speaks suppose term thought Treatise of Human true virtuous