Hume Discussion

For this discussion, I would like you to go to the assigned reading for Hume (An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding). Texts can be found here: com/authors/hume” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.earlymoderntexts.com/authors/hume&source=gmail&ust=1656394326094000&usg=AOvVaw2Qe3siBYsQk6vcDS51AVlU”>https://www.earlymoderntexts.com/authors/hume (Links to an external site.)). Choose (at least) two things from the readings to discuss. These can be small points or larger ones, examples, distinctions, argumentative claims, and so on. One of these should be such that you think about it and think “that sounds right” because the claim, distinction, etc. makes sense to you. The other should be something where you read it and go “Wait…what?”, because there is something confusing about the claim, distinction, etc. for you.

For each (your “sounds right” and your “wait…what?”) include a citation to where it can be found in the text (a parenthetical with the number of the section is sufficient.) One of the two things you discuss may be something that is discussed in lecture but at least one must be something that is novel, i.e., something that is discussed in Hume’s text that I did not discuss in lecture. Imagining your audience as someone who is unfamiliar with the material in this course, explain the idea as clearly and distinctly as you can, situating it in the context of Hume’s project. Explain why you think it makes sense, or why you think it is problematic or what is confusing about it. Seek depth of analysis by incorporating relevant lecture material and/or considering alternative possible analyses, explaining why they would or would not be consistent with the overall philosophical worldview of the philosopher.

The initial post is expected to be at 600 words, but more may well be required to do a good job of explaining everything you need to explain. This is an opportunity to demonstrate that you are giving the material in the course an honest go of it. Show off what you understand, and grapple intellectually with what you don’t. Aim to be as specific as you can. I want you to show that you have made an effort to dig beyond the surface here. Look at the grading info document posted in the intro to course module for more on constructing good discussion posts and replies, and writing for philosophy generally.