Scottish philosopher David Hume's profound impact on shaping America is discussed by Angela Coventry, Dennis Rasmussen, and Aaron Alexander Zubia. Topics include Hume's influence on the Founding Fathers, his ideas on happiness and property, his political philosophy, religious skepticism, and the importance of distinguishing epistemology and politics.
Hume's philosophical ideas, specifically his skepticism and emphasis on factions, influenced the thinking of Madison and Hamilton in shaping the US Constitution.
Hume's practical and pragmatic support for American independence aligned with figures like Hamilton, influencing the early stages of the movement towards independence.
Hume's support for commerce and its positive effects on society resonated with Hamilton's views on economic self-interest and the benefits of free trade.
Deep dives
Hume's Influence on the Founders
Hume's philosophical ideas and writings had a significant impact on the American founders, particularly figures like Madison and Hamilton. Hume's skepticism, liberalism, and pragmatic approach to politics resonated with their thinking. His emphasis on the inevitability of factions and the need for a well-constructed union influenced Madison's conception of factions in Federalist 10. Additionally, Hume's support for commerce and his belief that self-interest could serve the public good aligned with Hamilton's views on economic policy and the role of the executive. Hamilton also drew on Hume's ideas of government authority and the need for an energetic executive in Federalist 85. While Hume's writings were controversial and some founders like Jefferson had reservations about him, his ideas continue to shape American political thought and influenced the development of the US Constitution.
Hume's Influence on the American Revolution
Hume was an early and bold advocate of American independence in Britain at a time when most advocated forceful measures to maintain colonial ties. He believed that the colonies were a burden to Britain and that both sides would benefit from parting ways and establishing free trade. Hume's practical and pragmatic perspective on American affairs aligned with Hamilton and others who saw the benefits of independence. Hume's advocacy of American independence rested on pragmatic considerations rather than abstract principles, reflecting his skepticism of political idealism. While Hume's influence on the American Revolution has been overlooked, his views were influential and helped shape the early stages of the movement towards independence.
Hume's Views on Commerce and Virtue
Hume's support for commerce and its positive social and political effects set him apart from other thinkers of his time. He argued that progress in commerce, the arts, and the sciences leads to increased prosperity, liberty, and social order. Hume viewed commerce as a force that makes societies happier, more virtuous, and more moderate. This welcoming attitude toward commerce resonated with figures like Hamilton, who embraced Hume's ideas on economic self-interest and the benefits of free trade. While some viewed Hume's perspective as corrupt or detrimental to virtue, others recognized the potential of commerce to contribute to the common good.
Hume's Influence on Executive Power
Hume's ideas on executive power influenced Hamilton's views on the subject, particularly in Federalist 85. Hume's defense of a strong executive capable of defending against legislative encroachment resonated with Hamilton's vision of an energetic executive. Hamilton believed that the executive should be able to navigate political challenges and protect its interests. Hume's understanding of the need for authority in government and his willingness to embrace pragmatic considerations also aligned with Hamilton's perspective on executive power. While Jefferson saw this as a form of corruption, Hamilton and Hume viewed it as a necessary aspect of effective governance.
Hume's Skepticism and Agnosticism
Hume's religious skepticism and agnosticism shaped his thinking and approach to politics. He was attacked as an atheist, but a more accurate label would be agnostic. Hume's skepticism led him to doubt religious claims and question the capacities of human reason. This skepticism extended to politics, where he urged a cautious approach and emphasized the limitations of political principles. Hume's philosophical stance reflected an Epicurean perspective that emphasized the pursuit of happiness and pragmatic considerations. While his religious views were controversial, Hume's skepticism and agnosticism influenced the founders' approach to the separation of church and state and their emphasis on pragmatism and the pursuit of happiness in building a just and effective political system.
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. Join 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 as they 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.
