Hume on the Nature of Morality

David Hume's moral system involves considerations that seem at odds with one another, such as the reality of moral distinctions and the importance of consequences and motives. He appeals to facts about human psychology as the basis for an argument that morality is founded on sentiment, but insists that no "ought" can follow from an "is." His approach is descriptive, but morality is prescriptive. This Element addresses these puzzles in Hume's moral theory with reference to historical and contemporary discussions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 10 February 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

David Hume's moral system presents a complex and multifaceted framework that incorporates considerations that may initially appear to be contradictory. He firmly establishes the existence of moral distinctions, while simultaneously demonstrating that these distinctions are rooted in the inherent nature of human beings. Hume emphasizes the significance of considering the consequences of our actions while simultaneously recognizing that the motivations behind those actions are the subject of moral judgments. He draws upon insights into human psychology to argue that morality is not solely based on reason but also on sentiment. However, he maintains a crucial distinction by asserting that no direct "ought" can be derived from an "is." Hume questions how we can be motivated to adhere to rules that do not directly serve our personal interests. As an empiricist, his approach is characterized by a descriptive nature, yet his moral theory contains prescriptive elements. This Element aims to address these puzzles within Hume's moral theory, drawing upon historical and contemporary discussions to shed light on his complex and thought-provoking ideas.

David Hume's moral system presents a complex and multifaceted framework that incorporates considerations that may initially appear to be contradictory. He firmly establishes the existence of moral distinctions, while simultaneously demonstrating that these distinctions are rooted in the inherent nature of human beings. Hume emphasizes the significance of considering the consequences of our actions while simultaneously recognizing that the motivations behind those actions are the subject of moral judgments. He draws upon insights into human psychology to argue that morality is not solely based on reason but also on sentiment. However, he maintains a crucial distinction by asserting that no direct "ought" can be derived from an "is." Hume questions how we can be motivated to adhere to rules that do not directly serve our personal interests. As an empiricist, his approach is characterized by a descriptive nature, yet his moral theory contains prescriptive elements. This Element aims to address these puzzles within Hume's moral theory, drawing upon historical and contemporary discussions to shed light on his complex and thought-provoking ideas.

Weight: 134g
Dimension: 228 x 151 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108706568
Edition number: New ed