Hill, Robert S. “David Hume.” In History of Political Philosophy, edited by Leo Strauss and Joseph Cropsey, 535–558. 3rd ed. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1987.

In his chapter on David Hume in History of Political Philosophy, Robert S. Hill examines Hume’s contributions to political thought, emphasizing his skepticism, empiricism, and focus on human nature. Hill highlights Hume’s rejection of rationalist and natural law traditions, arguing that Hume viewed morality and politics as grounded in passion, custom, and historical experience rather than abstract principles. He explores Hume’s critique of social contract theory, his preference for constitutional government, and his advocacy for political moderation as a means of ensuring stability. Additionally, Hill delves into Hume’s historical method, noting its role in uncovering the dynamics of governance, as well as his critique of religious enthusiasm, which Hume saw as a threat to social harmony. Through this analysis, Hill positions Hume as a pivotal figure whose pragmatic approach continues to offer valuable insights into human behavior and political order.

 

From the publisher on Strauss’s book as a whole:

“This volume provides an unequaled introduction to the thought of chief contributors to the Western tradition of political philosophy from classical Greek antiquity to the twentieth century. Written by specialists on the various philosophers, this third edition has been expanded significantly to include both new and revised essays.”

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