A Treatise of Human Nature · Chapter
Part III: Of the Other Virtues and Vices explained
This chapter explores the nature of virtues and vices beyond the artificial ones, focusing on natural abilities, the distinction between natural and moral qualities, and the role of sympathy in moral judgments.
What happens
This chapter explores the nature of virtues and vices beyond the artificial ones, focusing on natural abilities, the distinction between natural and moral qualities, and the role of sympathy in moral judgments.
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
- Morality as Sentiment
Hume argues that moral distinctions arise from sentiment, not reason, and that virtues are qualities that produce pleasure or approval in observers.
- Sympathy and Social Influence
Sympathy is central to how we approve of virtues and disapprove of vices, as we enter into the feelings of others.
Characters to notice
- David Hume
The author, presenting his philosophical analysis of virtues and vices.
