An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals

"An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals" by David Hume is a philosophical exploration that questions the very heart of our ethical beliefs. This 18th-century work wonders if our morals come from logical thought or from our feelings, carefully studying virtues like kindness and fairness and how they affect our actions and communities. It starts by looking at why we disagree about what is right and wrong, claiming that stubborn opinions often get in the way of clear thinking. Hume sums up discussions of his time, engaging with old and new ideas about morality to see if it comes from reason or natural feelings. Hume believes that moral qualities are linked to how well we interact and contribute to society, explaining that the more we are benevolent and exhibit kindness, the more we are contributing to society in a positive, productive way, and the more we are to be valued within that society.