A Treatise of Human Nature · Chapter
Appendix explained
In this appendix, Hume revisits his theory of belief and personal identity, acknowledging difficulties in reconciling the distinctness of perceptions with the felt connection that forms the self.
What happens
In this appendix, Hume revisits his theory of belief and personal identity, acknowledging difficulties in reconciling the distinctness of perceptions with the felt connection that forms the self. He reaffirms that belief is a firmer conception, not a separate impression, and confesses to being entangled in a labyrinth regarding personal identity, proposing scepticism as a result. He also corrects two minor errors from earlier sections.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
In Part II, the dramatic climax occurs when Hume systematically dismantles the direct, simple origin of love a…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Skepticism About the External World
Hume's confession of being in a labyrinth and his plea for scepticism highlight the limits of human understanding.
- Passions and the Self
The appendix deeply examines the nature of the self, questioning its simplicity and identity, and linking it to perceptions.
- Custom and General Rules
Hume's discussion of belief as a firmer conception relies on custom and habit, which are central to his philosophy.
Characters to notice
- David Hume
Hume reflects on his own theory, confessing difficulties with personal identity and correcting earlier errors.
Key passages
“The transition from a present impression, always enlivens and strengthens any idea.”
A present impression makes associated ideas more vivid and forceful.
Hume explains how belief is strengthened by the transition from impression to idea.
“When I turn my reflection on myself, I never can perceive this self without some one or more perceptions; nor can I ever perceive anything but the perceptions.”
When I introspect, I only find perceptions, never a self separate from them.
Hume argues that the self is nothing but a bundle of perceptions.
“I cannot discover any theory, which gives me satisfaction on this head.”
I cannot find a satisfactory explanation for how perceptions are connected.
Hume admits the difficulty in explaining personal identity.
