Full Idea
The principle of individuation is nothing but the invariableness and uninterruptedness of any object through a supposed variation of time, by which the mind can trace it in the different periods of its existence.
Gist of Idea
Individuation is only seeing that a thing is stable and continuous over time
Source
David Hume (Treatise of Human Nature [1739], I.IV.2)
Book Reference
Hume,David: 'A Treatise of Human Nature', ed/tr. Selby-Bigge/Nidditch [OUP 1978], p.201
A Reaction
Not convinced by this. I can individuate something by an almost instantaneous glimpse. I don't increasingly individuate it as time passes. Instant viewing of type and structure may be enough.