David Hume

"I say then, that belief is nothing but a more vivid, lively, forcible, firm, steady conception of an object, than what the imagination alone is ever able to attain. This variety of terms, which may seem so unphilosophical, is intended only to express that act of the mind, which renders realities, or what is taken for such, more present to us than fictions, causes them to weigh more in the thought, and gives them a superior influence on the passions and imagination."

14 likes

Source: David Hume (1758). “Essays and Treatises on several subjects, etc. New edition”, p.311

About the author

David Hume

David Hume

Philosopher, Historian

David Hume was a Scottish philosopher known for his influential ideas on empiricism, skepticism, and human nature, particularly in 'A Treatise of Human Nature.'

All quotes by David Hume →

Same author

More quotes by David Hume

See all →
David Hume Philosopher, Historian

"It is seldom, that liberty of any kind is lost all at once. Slavery has so frightful an aspect to men accustomed to freedom, that it must steal upon them by degrees, and must disguise itself in a thousand shapes, in order to be received."

Read quote
David Hume Philosopher, Historian

"When men are most sure and arrogant they are commonly most mistaken, giving views to passion without that proper deliberation which alone can secure them from the grossest absurdities."

Read quote