Essays, Moral, Political, and Literary

David Hume (1711-1776) remains a major figure in British philosophy, particularly for two or three works, including A Treatise on Human Nature and An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding. But he was also a prolific essayist and historian. During his lifetime Essays Moral, Political and Literary went through a number of editions and collections, far outselling his philosophy. Now, the situation is reversed. But listening to the essays today it is difficult to see why. Even after 250 years they continue to be intellectually stimulating, witty, engrossing, and, in many cases, retain a relevance to our times. The variety of topics alone is appealing. Presented here in the main collection are 47 essays, divided into two parts, though not organized in any specific thematic way. Among the political essays are: Of the First Principles of Government; Whether the British Government inclines more to Absolute Monarchy or to a Republic; Of the Liberty of the Press; Idea of a Perfect Commonwealth.