more on this theme | more from this thinker
Full Idea
It is wisely ordained by nature, that private connexions should commonly prevail over universal views and considerations; otherwise our affections and actions would be dissipated and lost, for want of a proper limited object.
Gist of Idea
Nature makes private affections come first, because public concerns are spread too thinly
Source
David Hume (Enquiry concerning Principles of Morals [1751], V.II.186n)
Book Ref
Hume,David: 'Enquiries Conc. Human Understanding, Morals', ed/tr. Selby-Bigge/Nidditch [OUP 1975], p.229
A Reaction
A very good objection to the excessively altruistic demands of utilitarianism.
| 3919 | Conclusions of reason do not affect our emotions or decisions to act [Hume] |
| 3918 | Moral philosophy aims to show us our duty [Hume] |
| 23560 | If we all naturally had everything we could ever desire, the virtue of justice would be irrelevant [Hume] |
| 3920 | If you equalise possessions, people's talents will make them unequal again [Hume] |
| 3921 | The safety of the people is the supreme law [Hume] |
| 3922 | Justice only exists to support society [Hume] |
| 3925 | Personal Merit is the possession of useful or agreeable mental qualities [Hume] |
| 3926 | The human heart has a natural concern for public good [Hume] |
| 3929 | No moral theory is of any use if it doesn't serve the interests of the individual concerned [Hume] |
| 3928 | Virtue just requires careful calculation and a preference for the greater happiness [Hume] |
| 3927 | Society prefers helpful lies to harmful truth [Hume] |
| 3923 | No one would cause pain to a complete stranger who happened to be passing [Hume] |
| 3924 | Nature makes private affections come first, because public concerns are spread too thinly [Hume] |