David Hume

Date of Birth: April 26, 1711

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: August 25, 1776

Biography

David Hume was a Scottish Enlightenment philosopher, historian, economist, and essayist, who is best known today for his highly influential system of radical philosophical empiricism, skepticism, and naturalism. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Hume attended the University of Edinburgh at a young age and developed an early interest in philosophy. His major philosophical works include “A Treatise of Human Nature” (1739-40), “An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding” (1748), and “An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals” (1751). Hume’s philosophical writings explore topics such as the limitations of human understanding, the nature of human emotions, and the basis of moral judgments. Despite initial resistance to his ideas, Hume’s work profoundly impacted future philosophical thought, influencing figures such as Immanuel Kant and Jeremy Bentham.

5 Interesting Facts about David Hume

1. David Hume was initially rejected by the Church of Scotland, which viewed some of his ideas as heretical.

2. He served as a librarian at the Advocates Library in Edinburgh, which allowed him access to a wealth of resources for his historical and philosophical writing.

3. Hume’s “History of England,” published in multiple volumes between 1754 and 1762, was immensely popular and established him as a leading historian of his time.

4. He was known for his convivial personality and was a central figure in the Scottish Enlightenment, often engaging with other intellectuals like Adam Smith.

5. Hume’s skepticism about religion led to his being labeled an atheist, though he preferred the term “skeptic.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from David Hume

1. “A wise man proportions his belief to the evidence.”

2. “Custom is the great guide of human life.”

3. “Reason is, and ought only to be the slave of the passions, and can never pretend to any other office than to serve and obey them.”

4. “Beauty in things exists in the mind which contemplates them.”

5. “The life of man is of no greater importance to the universe than that of an oyster.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a philosopher and historian in the 18th century, David Hume did not accumulate wealth in the modern sense. However, his works were influential and widely read, which brought him a certain level of financial stability and intellectual prestige.