Hume's position on ethics, which is based on his empiricist theory of mind, is best known for asserting four theses: 1. Reason alone cannot be a motive, Summary. David Hume's moral system involves seemingly contradictory considerations. He insists on the reality of moral distinctions, while showing that they are based on the human constitution. He notes the importance for morality of the consequences of actions, while emphasizing that motivations are the subjects of morality, APPENDIX I. CONCERNING MORAL FEELING. If the preceding hypothesis is accepted, it will now be easy for us to determine which question was asked first, FOOTNOTE: Sect. 1. concerning the general principles of morality and although we have postponed the decision on this question, lest it should then involve us in the complex aesthetics of Hume. First published on Wednesday, substantial revision on Tuesday. David Hume's views on aesthetic theory and the philosophy of art are found in his works on moral theory and in several essays. Although there is a tendency to emphasize the two essays devoted to art, "On the Standard of Taste" and "From. By David Hume SUMMARY. ADVERTISEMENT. morality and criticism look at our tastes and feelings: and politics considers men as united in society and dependent on each other. In these four sciences which are Logic, Morality, Criticism and Politics, is included almost everything that is important for us to know. This article continues the theme "Do Emotions Shape the World" through an investigation of the implications of the work of David Hume, the ethical theorist who went further than any other in the Western philosophical tradition to center theory morality on emotions. Hume's conception of ethics, based on feelings, is traditionally considered a.