As every inquiry which regards religion is of the utmost importance, there are two questions in particular which challenge our attention, to wit, that concerning its foundation in reason, and that concerning it origin in human nature.
DAVID HUMEAs every inquiry which regards religion is of the utmost importance, there are two questions in particular which challenge our attention, to wit, that concerning its foundation in reason, and that concerning it origin in human nature.
DAVID HUMEAny pride or haughtiness, is displeasing to us, merely because it shocks our own pride, and leads us by sympathy into comparison, which causes the disagreeable passion of humility.
DAVID HUMEIt is possible for the same thing both to be and not to be.
DAVID HUMETo philosophers and historians, the madness and imbecile wickedness of mankind ought to appear ordinary events.
DAVID HUMERevolutions of government cannot be effected by the mere force of argument and reasoning.
DAVID HUMEBut the life of a man is of no greater importance to the universe than that of an oyster.
DAVID HUMEWhen suicide is out of fashion we conclude that none but madmen destroy themselves.
DAVID HUMEBeauty is no quality in things themselves: It exists merely in the mind which contemplates them; and each mind perceives a different beauty.
DAVID HUMEHow can we satisfy ourselves without going on in infinitum? And, after all, what satisfaction is there in that infinite progression?
DAVID HUMEGenerally speaking, the errors in religion are dangerous; those in philosophy only ridiculous.
DAVID HUMEThe Crusades – the most signal and most durable monument of human folly that has yet appeared in any age or nation.
DAVID HUMEI never knew anyone, that examined and deliberated about nonsense, who did not believe it before the end of his enquiries.
DAVID HUMEMen’s views of things are the result of their understanding alone. Their conduct is regulated by their understanding, their temper, and their passions.
DAVID HUMEBut the greatest part of mankind float between vice and virtue.
DAVID HUMEThe science of man is the only solid foundation for the other sciences.
DAVID HUMEIn public affairs men are often better pleased that the truth, though known to everybody, should be wrapped up under a decent cover than if it were exposed in open daylight to the eyes of all the world.
DAVID HUME