Question

David Hume argues some kinds of knowledge are not possible, in particular, that absolute certainty about the external world is not possible. Please identify the steps in his reasoning that bring him to this conclusion. Do you find his argument to be convincing?

Answer 1

David Hume's argument stems from our reliance on sense impressions for knowledge and the limitations this imposes. He reasons that without absolute certainty, knowledge of the external world cannot be attained, casting skepticism on the extent of human understanding. His skeptical stance on empiricism is compelling in acknowledging the limitations of human perception.

Step-by-step explanation:

David Hume's skepticism revolves around the limitations of empiricism and our ability to ascertain truths about the external world. Hume begins by building on John Locke's notion that the mind is a tabula rasa, an empty slate that is gradually filled with ideas through sense impressions. However, Hume takes a more skeptical stand by asserting that sense impressions alone cannot guarantee absolute certainty of an external reality. His reasoning is structured as follows:

1. All our ideas and concepts ultimately trace back to sense impressions.
2. Reasoning, or a priori thinking, is not based on sensory experience and therefore cannot yield knowledge about the world.
3. Since sense impressions do not prove an independent external reality, we cannot claim certainty about the nature of that reality.
4. Consequently, due to the lack of certainty, knowledge of the external world is unattainable.

Personally, I find Hume's argument quite convincing, as it emphasizes the inherently fallible nature of human perception and cognition. While it does not entail that our experiences of the external world are wholly untrustworthy, it does highlight that absolute certainty may elude us.

Answer 2

Hume developed a theory that sustains itself on the idea of skepticism. To achieve this skepticism, Hume argues that is necessary two steps:

1 - making skeptical attacks

2 - offer positive theories based on natural beliefs

Step-by-step explanation:

According to David Hume, all the contents of the mind are perceptions. The very notion of Mind is indistinguishable from some perception. It means to say that all simple ideas come from their corresponding impressions, with no innate ideas. In his philosophy, humans are so enclosed in their particular representations, that even the affirmation of matter outside of man is not possible.