A Treatise of Human Nature

By: David Hume, Israel Bouseman

Narrated by: Philippe Duquenoy

A Treatise of Human Nature is the first work ever published by David Hume, a man who revolutionized our understanding of philosophy. Hume was an advocate of the skeptical school of philosophy and a key figure in the Scottish Enlightenment. He looks at the nature of human experience and cognition, showing that philosophy and reason can only be reflections of our nature. The naturalistic science of man that Hume expresses in this work forms the foundation for all later philosophical inquiry. Kant gave Hume credit for "awakening [him] from his dogmatic slumber". With this influence alone, Hume initiated the clearest critique of reason that Western civilization has produced in the history of philosophy.

Hume's work formed the psychological foundation for modern psychology. He showed the limits and proper application of reason in human life. He also examined the passions and morality, showing how they arise in human experience and how they are connected to both reason and action. In essence, A Treatise of Human Nature is a thorough, well-considered, and inspired examination of human psychology and the implications that the structure of our thought and experience has on our knowledge.

The full narration of Hume's text is preceded by a summary, which includes a biography, background information on the work, and an overview of the material covered.

The summary also includes a synopsis and analysis of the text as well as an examination of its historical context, its social impact, and the criticisms it evoked. This work is suitable for students of philosophy or psychology or for anyone interested in coming to a deeper understanding of the nature of the mind.

Public Domain (P)2015 AudioLearn

great narration

this is a good quality recording, and the narration is one of the best I’ve had occasion to listen to so far

Strong Second Half

I like how Bouseman gives a short biography and summary to start.

The first half of the book was of little interest to me, but the second half made up for it. The final 6 hours or so (political philosophy and morals) is very strong.

Extensive Treatise on Humanistic Rationalism

David Hume presents his rationalism as regards human behavior. It was of course incumbent on him (he held no religious beliefs) to stay to the path of a "humanist". This to his credit, was done without any open animosity toward those who held to a Christian view of human behavior. It is also unavoidably clear, that he was a citizen living under a monarchical form of government; he nevertheless communicates freely with the reader/listener.

Philippe Duquanoy's reading of this audiobook, suggested to me that he embraced its entire content. This in and of itself, is not a good or bad thing; I mention this due to my belief that David Hume, was attempting to present this material in the context of a theoretical disquisition. I would hasten to add that Philippe's voice was clear and easy to understand.

Great narration

Very deep and profound book + the narration is great! very good summary at the start.

Has an important place in the history of Western t

Glad to have read it for its place in history. The beginning of using reason and logic to understand the human mind.