Single Idea 3922

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 3. Virtues / c. Justice]

Full Idea

The necessity of justice to the support of society is the sole foundation of that virtue.

Gist of Idea

Justice only exists to support society

Source

David Hume (Enquiry concerning Principles of Morals [1751], III.II.163)

Book Reference

Hume,David: 'Enquiries Conc. Human Understanding, Morals', ed/tr. Selby-Bigge/Nidditch [OUP 1975], p.203


A Reaction

A sense of fairness precedes the building of a society, rather than arising out of it.