A Treatise of Human Nature · Chapter
Section III: Whence These Objects and Causes Are Derived explained
Hume investigates the origin of the objects and causes of pride and humility.
What happens
Hume investigates the origin of the objects and causes of pride and humility. He argues that the object (self) is determined by an original, natural property, while the causes are natural but not original, arising from general principles rather than distinct adaptations. He criticizes the multiplication of principles, comparing it to pre-Copernican astronomy, and advocates for simplicity in explaining the passions.
Themes in this chapter
Passions and the Self
Discusses how pride and humility have self as their object, determined by an original property.
Custom and General Rules
Argues that causes of pride and humility operate through general qualities rather than distinct original principles.
Characters to notice
- David Hume
Author and narrator, analyzing the origin of pride and humility.
Key passages
“It is evident in the first place, that these passions are determined to have self for their object, not only by a natural but also by an original property.”
Clearly, pride and humility are naturally and originally directed at the self.
Establishes the object of these passions.
“But though the causes of pride and humility be plainly natural, we shall find upon examination, that they are not original...”
Although the causes are natural, they are not innate or pre-programmed.
Distinguishes between natural and original causes.
“Here, therefore, moral philosophy is in the same condition as natural, with regard to astronomy before the time of Copernicus.”
Moral philosophy is like astronomy before Copernicus, relying on complex systems.
Analogizes the need for simplicity in explaining passions.