Hume’s Moral Philosophy: Sentiment, Utility, and Virtue
Hume’s Journey to Moral Philosophy
After the initial reception of his Treatise of Human Nature, David Hume returned to Scotland. He later worked as a tutor and traveled extensively before focusing on revising his earlier work. This led to the Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals, which he considered his finest work.
The Role of Sentiment in Morality
Hume argued that morality is guided by habits rather than reason. The goal is to understand our duties and cultivate virtuous habits. He emphasized the role of feeling over reason in moral judgments, stating that reason is, and should only be a slave of the passions.
Methodology and Moral Distinctions
Work Plan
- Analyze qualities forming personal merit.
- Identify attributes causing affection or contempt.
- Find universal principles through inductive reasoning.
Experimental Method
Hume used an experimental method, inspired by Spinoza, to establish general propositions based on observation and inductive reasoning.
Moral Sense and Sympathy
Hume argued against moral relativism, proposing that sympathy, a common feeling among humans, allows for objective moral standards.
Virtue, Utility, and Benevolence
Virtue is what produces a feeling of praise in spectators. The main foundation of moral praise is the usefulness of a quality or action. Reason helps discern usefulness, but feeling prioritizes it. This feeling is rooted in a concern for humanity’s happiness.
Personal worth extends beyond self-interest to include benefits for others. Hume emphasized altruism and universal benevolence, opposing Hobbesian distrust.
Social Virtues and Secular Morality
Hume highlighted the importance of social virtues that promote social order. He criticized monastic virtues for hindering understanding and hardening the heart.
Hume advocated for a secular morality based on reason and utility, not religion. He emphasized peace of mind, integrity, and a balanced life as essential for happiness.
Hume’s Ideal Life
- Peace of mind
- Consciousness of integrity
- Moderation in passions
- Capacity for love, joy, and friendship
- Dedication to study
Hume’s philosophy offers a liberating perspective, promoting a secular, utilitarian approach to life focused on well-being and virtue.