In the first chapter, Hume addresses the importance of philosophy in being the foundation and the reason for discussions of principles. Hume says that it is necessary to understand what it is that you are arguing for, but to also be willing to listen to other arguments and consider them justly.
He then moves into a discussion of morals and that which we base them on. He says that some may argue that morals are based on reason, whereas others would state that morals are based on sentiment, based on emotion and virtue, which is itself based on amiability. But “render men totally indifferent towards these distinctions; and morality is no longer a practical study, nor has any tendency to regulate our lives and actions.” (pg 75, 7)
From this comes the talk of benevolence and the natural virtues. Hume makes the argument that the greatest compliment one can be given is to be credited with being a virtuous person. To behave sympathetically is to live a good life and to be respected.
Hume once again raises the discussion of justice, which he says is relative to the situation. He talks about the idea theocracy, one in which everyone and everything would work to promote the public good which would ideally lead to universal equality, but also states that this equality, while wonderful sounding, is completely impractical. This slips right into the discussion of property and its distribution.
The final section for today’s readings covered the discussion of political society. This goes back to justice and the ways in which men make decisions, whether for personal gain or public good. Hume also talks of chastity, with an emphasis on its relevance for women more significantly than for men. I must admit, I found this somewhat out of place, which may be because of confusion about the transitioning argument. Hume ended this section by addressing the idea that rules dictate every action, even those that goes against social norms (including, but not limited to, murder).