An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding · Chapter
Of the Different Species of Philosophy explained
Hume distinguishes between two species of philosophy: the 'easy and obvious' philosophy, which appeals to common life, sentiment, and action, and the 'accurate and abstruse' philosophy, which seeks general principles through rigorous specul
What happens
Hume distinguishes between two species of philosophy: the 'easy and obvious' philosophy, which appeals to common life, sentiment, and action, and the 'accurate and abstruse' philosophy, which seeks general principles through rigorous speculation. He argues that while the former is more popular and useful for moral reform, the latter is necessary to provide a foundation for the former. Hume advocates for a balanced approach, reconciling profound inquiry with clarity, and warns against the dangers of superstition and error that arise from abstruse philosophy when left unchecked.
Themes in this chapter
Practical vs. Abstract Philosophy
Hume contrasts the 'easy and obvious' philosophy, which guides action and sentiment, with the 'accurate and abstruse' philosophy, which seeks general principles. He argues for their reconciliation.
Human Nature and Uniformity
The chapter emphasizes the study of human nature as a science, seeking common principles that regulate understanding, sentiment, and moral approval.
Custom and Habit as Guides
Hume suggests that the easy philosophy relies on common sense and natural sentiments, which are shaped by custom and habit, as opposed to abstract reasoning.
Characters to notice
- Narrator
The narrator presents the two species of philosophy and argues for a balanced approach, advocating for the reconciliation of profound inquiry with clear, accessible reasoning.
- John Locke
Mentioned as a philosopher whose fame may be forgotten while Addison is still read, illustrating the transient reputation of abstract reasoners.
- Epicurus
Referenced as an example of an ancient philosopher whose reputation has endured, in contrast to the decayed fame of Aristotle.
- Alexander the Great
Mentioned in the context of historical figures whose fame has persisted, contrasting with the obscure fate of abstract philosophers.
- Quintus Curtius
Referenced as a historian whose works have survived, illustrating the lasting appeal of accessible philosophy.
- Mademoiselle Thibaut
Mentioned as an example of a figure whose reputation is confined to her own nation and age, similar to Malebranche.
- Pierre Bayle
Referenced as a philosopher whose fame is limited, contrasting with the enduring popularity of easy philosophy.
- Adam
Mentioned in the context of the first man, used as an example to illustrate the limits of human understanding without experience.
Key passages
“The one considers man chiefly as born for action; and as influenced in his measures by taste and sentiment; pursuing one object, and avoiding another, according to the value which these objects seem to possess, and according to the light in which they present themselves.”
The first type of philosophy sees humans as primarily active beings, guided by taste and feeling, choosing or avoiding things based on their perceived worth.
Hume introduces the 'easy' philosophy, which focuses on practical action and sentiment.
“The other species of philosophers consider man in the light of a reasonable rather than an active being, and endeavour to form his understanding more than cultivate his manners.”
The second type of philosophy views humans as rational rather than active, aiming to improve the understanding rather than refine behavior.
Hume describes the 'abstruse' philosophy, which prioritizes intellectual inquiry over moral cultivation.
“Happy, if we can unite the boundaries of the different species of philosophy, by reconciling profound enquiry with clearness, and truth with novelty!”
It would be fortunate if we could merge the two kinds of philosophy, combining deep investigation with clarity, and truth with originality.
Hume expresses his goal of reconciling the easy and abstruse philosophies.
“Be a philosopher; but, amidst all your philosophy, be still a man.”
Engage in philosophy, but never forget your humanity.
Hume advises maintaining a balance between philosophical inquiry and practical life.
