A Treatise of Human Nature · Chapter
Section V: The Same Subject Continued explained
Hume continues his examination of the idea of extension and vacuum, addressing objections from metaphysics and mechanics.
What happens
Hume continues his examination of the idea of extension and vacuum, addressing objections from metaphysics and mechanics. He argues that the idea of a vacuum is not derived from any impression, but arises from the confusion of ideas due to the relations of causation and resemblance. He also applies similar reasoning to the idea of time, asserting that time is nothing but the manner in which real objects exist, and that we have no idea of time without change. He concludes by confessing that his philosophy only aims to explain the nature and causes of our perceptions, not the secret nature of bodies.
Themes in this chapter
Empiricism and the Primacy of Impressions
Hume argues that all ideas must be derived from impressions, and since no impression of a vacuum or time without change exists, these ideas are fictitious.
Skepticism About the External World
Hume confesses that he cannot penetrate into the nature of bodies, only knowing their external properties as they affect the senses.
Custom and General Rules
Hume explains that we mistake words for ideas and confound ideas due to close relations, leading to false beliefs about vacuum and time.
Characters to notice
- David Hume
Author and narrator, presenting his philosophical arguments on extension and vacuum.
Key passages
“We use words for ideas, because they are commonly so closely connected that the mind easily mistakes them.”
We often substitute words for ideas because they are so closely linked that the mind confuses them.
Hume explains how language can lead to conceptual errors.
“I answer this objection, by pleading guilty, and by confessing that my intention never was to penetrate into the nature of bodies, or explain the secret causes of their operations.”
I admit that I do not aim to uncover the hidden nature of bodies or their underlying causes.
Hume acknowledges the limits of his philosophical inquiry.
“But at present I content myself with knowing perfectly the manner in which objects affect my senses, and their connections with each other, as far as experience informs me of them.”
For now, I am satisfied with understanding how objects affect my senses and how they relate to each other, based on experience.
Hume emphasizes the empirical basis of his philosophy.