Single Idea 13602

[catalogued under 8. Modes of Existence / C. Powers and Dispositions / 7. Against Powers]

Full Idea

We can have no idea of connexion or power at all, and these words are absolutely without any meaning.

Gist of Idea

We cannot form an idea of a 'power', and the word is without meaning

Source

David Hume (Enquiry Conc Human Understanding [1748], 7.2.58)

Book Reference

Hume,David: 'Enquiries Conc. Human Understanding, Morals', ed/tr. Selby-Bigge/Nidditch [OUP 1975], p.74


A Reaction

I would say that this ignores a phenomenon of which Hume is well aware, which is the power of our own minds to generate thoughts and actions. Hume seems to be employing a verificationist theory of meaning