David Hume (1711-1776)

Epistemology

Hume argued that there is no rational basis for inductive reasoning which means no rational basis for understanding cause and effect. If Hume is correct reason's power is seriously limited. Forming causal connections between things is what allows to live in an ordered world. If we are unable to have faith in causality it would mean humans could not even be certain that the laws of nature would remain the same in the future as they have in the past. Even more we couldn't be certain that our sense of self was valid. Hume's skeptical view is in direct contrast with the traditional Christian view that supports a realist conception of reality. In a realist worldview things like truth, rationality, order in the universe and coherence of our minds really exist. Hume took the problems in enlightenment thinking to their most extreme logical conclusions. His radical skepticism paved the way for the counter-enlightenment. No event manifested the theoretical problems of the enlightenment into reality as much as the French revolution did.