Hume and the Demands of Philosophy: Science, Skepticism, and Moderation

Hume is a radical epistemic skeptic who believes that philosophy is a normative method of inquiry governing the special sciences and that we should suspend core beliefs due to rational defeater arguments. His moderate approach recognizes that our faculties are not created by a beneficent God, so the epistemic demands of philosophy and the practical demands of life sometimes diverge.

Format: Hardback
Length: 228 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

Hume's scientific project and skepticism are explored in Nathan I. Sasser's book, Hume and the Demands of Philosophy: Science, Skepticism, and Moderation. Sasser contends that Hume is a radical epistemic skeptic who holds onto beliefs essential for ordinary life and scientific research for purely practical reasons. According to Sasser, Hume's epistemology revolves around his vision of philosophy as a normative method of inquiry that governs the special sciences. Philosophy endorses the mental faculties responsible for reasoning and sensory beliefs. However, these beliefs and the products of reason face formidable rational defeater arguments, leading philosophy to demand their suspension.

Hume's response to this skeptical dilemma is to highlight the fatal practical consequences of suspending these core beliefs. He advises against yielding to philosophy's demands when they are neither agreeable nor beneficial to ourselves or others. Hume's moderate approach to philosophy acknowledges that since our faculties are not created by a benevolent God, the epistemic demands of philosophy and the practical demands of life may sometimes diverge.

Sasser's book offers a comprehensive interpretation of Hume's philosophical project, shedding light on his skepticism and his belief in the importance of moderation. It provides valuable insights into Hume's epistemology and his practical approach to philosophy, challenging readers to consider the implications of his ideas for our understanding of knowledge and belief.

Weight: 431g
Dimension: 236 x 163 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793623218