PhilosophersDavid Hume

David Hume

Neither causation nor induction can be proved: custom guides us.

Empiricism · Modern skepticism1711 – 1776 United KingdomEmpiricistMitigated scepticCritic of religionHistorian

Overview Arguments · 11 Works Quotes Lineage

1739

A Treatise of Human Nature essential

Published anonymously. A failure on release; Hume later disowned it in favour of the Enquiries.

Written and published by the author

1748

An Enquiry concerning Human Understanding essential

The clear, short version of his ideas: induction, causation, liberty, miracles, scepticism.

Written and published by the author

1751

An Enquiry concerning the Principles of Morals essential

The one of his books he liked best.

Written and published by the author

1779

Dialogues concerning Natural Religion essential

Written over twenty-five years and published after his death by his nephew, as too risky. Three characters debate: it is hard to know which speaks for Hume.

Written by the author, published posthumously