Great Guide: What David Hume Can Teach Us about Being Human and Living Well

David Hume (1711–1776) was an Enlightenment philosopher known for his ideas about cause and effect and criticisms of religion. The Great Guide by Julian Baggini offers practical wisdom based on Hume's philosophy, showing how his thought can guide a complete approach to life. The book combines biography, intellectual history, and philosophy, taking readers to the places that inspired Hume and presenting 145 Humean maxims for living well. It demonstrates how Hume's philosophy can enrich life, covering topics such as success, travel, friendship, death, identity, and leisure.

Format: Hardback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 25 May 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press

David Hume (1711–1776) is a renowned philosopher known for his profound insights into cause and effect and his critiques of religion. However, his philosophy is often overlooked for its practical wisdom. Hume's philosophy is rooted in a genuine understanding of human nature, particularly in his assessment of human behavior.

"The Great Guide" is an engaging and enlightening exploration of how Hume's thought can serve as a comprehensive guide to life. In this captivating book, Julian Baggini skillfully blends biography, intellectual history, and philosophy to present a holistic vision of Hume's philosophy. He follows Hume on his life's journey, literally walking in the great philosopher's footsteps, as Baggini takes readers to the places that deeply inspired Hume, from his family estate near the Scottish border to Paris, where he was warmly embraced by French society in his later years.

Through his meticulous research, Baggini demonstrates how Hume applied his philosophy in his daily life, seamlessly blending reason, passion, study, leisure, and relaxation. The book includes 145 Humean maxims, offering valuable insights on various aspects of life, such as the meaning of success, the value of travel, friendship, facing death, identity, and the importance of leisure.

"The Great Guide" showcases the richness and depth of Hume's philosophy, demonstrating how it can enhance our understanding of human nature and guide us toward living a fulfilling and meaningful life. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in philosophy, history, or personal growth, as it offers invaluable wisdom and practical insights that can be applied to our own lives.

Weight: 542g
Dimension: 150 x 222 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691205434