The Political Thought of David Hume w/ Aaron Zubia

Cicero's 'On Moral Ends' explores various philosophical perspectives on the ultimate goals of human life, such as pleasure, virtue, and the highest good. Through dialogues between different characters, Cicero examines the strengths and weaknesses of each viewpoint, engaging with Epicurean, Stoic, and Academic philosophies. The work seeks to understand how individuals can achieve happiness and fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of moral principles and intellectual inquiry. Cicero's exploration highlights the complexities of ethical decision-making and the pursuit of a meaningful existence. It provides insights into the debates that shaped ancient Roman thought.

David Hume's 'Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion' is a philosophical work exploring the arguments for and against the existence of God. The work presents a series of dialogues between different characters representing various philosophical positions. Hume masterfully employs his skeptical approach to examine the limitations of human reason in addressing theological questions. The dialogues explore the arguments from design, the problem of evil, and the nature of divine attributes. The work remains a significant contribution to the philosophy of religion.

In 'Ideas Have Consequences,' Richard M. Weaver argues that the decline of Western civilization is a result of the increasing acceptance of relativism over absolute reality. Despite advancements in knowledge, this shift away from the realist intellectual tradition has weakened Western society's capacity for reason, leading to catastrophic consequences for social order and individual rights. Weaver proposes a remedy in the renewed acceptance of absolute reality and the recognition that ideas, like actions, have consequences. The book also includes a foreword by Roger Kimball and an afterword by Ted J. Smith III, providing additional context and insights into Weaver's work and its historical significance.

In this influential work, Hume seeks to establish a 'science of man' by applying the experimental method of reasoning, inspired by Isaac Newton's achievements in the physical sciences. The treatise is divided into three books: 'Of the Understanding', 'Of the Passions', and 'Of Morals'. Hume argues that human behavior is driven by passions rather than reason, introduces the problem of induction, and defends a sentimentalist account of morality. He also discusses personal identity and free will from a sceptical and compatibilist perspective.

Published in 1651, 'Leviathan' by Thomas Hobbes is a comprehensive treatise on political philosophy. The book is divided into four main parts: 'Of Man,' 'Of Commonwealth,' 'Of a Christian Commonwealth,' and 'Of the Kingdom of Darkness. ' Hobbes argues that the natural state of humans is one of conflict and anarchy, and that the best way to achieve peace and security is through the establishment of a commonwealth governed by an absolute sovereign. This sovereign, which Hobbes terms the 'Leviathan,' has supreme authority over all aspects of governance, including law, religion, and public offices. Hobbes' work is a foundational text in social contract theory and continues to influence political thought to this day.

This book provides an enlightening and engaging account of England's history, from the invaders of the dark ages to the aftermath of the coalition. Written by Simon Jenkins, it brings together all the significant events, themes, and individuals in a stylish and authoritative narrative. The book is beautifully illustrated and has been updated to include recent events, making it a standard work for years to come.

Meditations is a series of private writings composed by Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome's greatest emperors, as he struggled to understand himself and make sense of the universe. Written between 170 and 180 CE while on military campaigns, this work combines Stoic philosophy with personal observations on leadership, duty, mortality, and human nature. Through twelve books of intimate thoughts never intended for publication, Marcus Aurelius explores themes of self-improvement, resilience in the face of adversity, and living virtuously while accepting what cannot be changed.

In this book, Melissa S. Kearney presents a provocative case for the economic benefits of marriage, highlighting how the decline of marriage has exacerbated economic and social inequalities in the US. Based on over a decade of economic research, Kearney argues that households with two married parents offer significant economic and non-economic benefits to both the parents and their children, particularly in terms of financial stability, educational outcomes, and social mobility. She emphasizes that the decline in marriage is more pronounced among lower socioeconomic groups, leading to a 'two-parent privilege' that advantages children from higher socioeconomic backgrounds. Kearney also discusses the underlying causes of the marriage decline, including changes in male wages and female labor market participation, and suggests policy implications to address these issues.

In 'Orthodoxy,' G.K. Chesterton presents a compelling defense of Christianity, arguing that it is the most rational and fulfilling worldview. The book is a personal and philosophical journey where Chesterton explains how he came to embrace traditional Christianity after exploring various heresies and philosophies. He compares Christianity with other worldviews, highlighting its unique ability to balance paradoxes and provide a coherent explanation of human nature and the world. Chesterton's writing is characterized by his wit, humor, and profound insights, making the book both intellectually stimulating and engagingly readable.

Plato's Republic is one of his most famous works, a philosophical dialogue exploring justice, ideal societies, and the nature of reality. It features the allegory of the cave, a powerful metaphor for the limitations of human perception and the pursuit of knowledge. The dialogue delves into various forms of government, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, ultimately advocating for a philosopher-king to rule the ideal state. The Republic also examines the tripartite soul, proposing that reason, spirit, and appetite must be harmonized for individual and societal well-being. Its enduring influence on political philosophy and ethics makes it a cornerstone of Western thought.

Cicero's On Duties is a philosophical treatise exploring moral obligations and ethical conduct, covering topics such as justice, honesty, and the proper role of citizens in society.

Northanger Abbey is a coming-of-age story that satirizes the Gothic novels of the late 18th century. The novel follows Catherine Morland, a young and naive girl who loves reading Gothic novels. When she is invited to stay at Northanger Abbey, the home of the Tilney family, her imagination runs wild with expectations of mystery and horror. However, the reality of the abbey is far from her Gothic fantasies. The novel explores Catherine's growth as she learns to distinguish between fiction and reality, and it critiques the societal norms and expectations of her time. Written by Jane Austen, the book was completed in 1803 but published posthumously in 1817 along with Persuasion.