Hume's idea of factions influenced Madison's thinking on factions in Federalist 10, both believing a large republic could mitigate their negative effects.
Hume's positive view of commerce resonated with Hamilton's beliefs, as both saw self-interest and profit-maximizing commerce as beneficial for society.
Hamilton was attracted to Hume's ideas of a strong executive power, capable of defending itself against encroachments by the legislative branch.
Deep dives
Hume's Influence on American Independence
Hume was an early and strong advocate of American independence in Britain, advocating for a peaceful parting of ways and free trade between Britain and America.
Hume's Influence on Madison's Notion of Factions
Hume's idea of factions, groups pursuing their own interests to the detriment of others, influenced Madison's thinking on factions in Federalist 10. Both Hume and Madison believed that factions were inevitable in society and that a large republic could mitigate their negative effects.
Hume's Influence on Hamilton's View of Commerce
Hume's positive view of commerce and its role in increasing prosperity and promoting liberty resonated with Hamilton's beliefs. Both Hume and Hamilton believed in the power of self-interest and profit-maximizing commerce to benefit society as a whole.
Hume's Influence on Hamilton's View of Executive Power
Hamilton was attracted to Hume's ideas of a strong executive power, capable of defending itself against encroachments by the legislative branch. Hume's arguments for an energetic government resonated with Hamilton's ideas on the topic.
Hume's Religious Skepticism and its Influence on the Founders
Hume's religious skepticism, leaning more towards agnosticism than atheism, influenced his political views. His separation of politics from religious principles aligned with the skepticism and epicureanism of the Enlightenment. While the founders were influenced by his political theories, they did not necessarily accept Hume's religious skepticism.
Called “a degenerate son of science” by Thomas Jefferson and a “bungling lawgiver” by James Madison, Scottish philosopher David Hume was cited so often at the Constitutional Convention that delegates seemed to have committed his essays to memory. In this episode, we are sharing audio from a recent America’s Town Hall program featuring Angela Coventry, author of Hume: A Guide for the Perplexed; Dennis Rasmussen, author of The Infidel and the Professor: David Hume, Adam Smith, and the Friendship That Shaped Modern Thought; and Aaron Alexander Zubia, author of The Political Thought of David Hume, who discuss Hume’s philosophical legacy and its profound impact on the shaping of America. Jeffrey Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, moderates. This program was streamed live on January 29, 2024.
