Pragmatism, Empiricism and David Hume :: essays research papers

Pragmatism, Empiricism and David HumePragmatism is based on the philosophy that ideas must be tested and re-tested, that considers dictate reality. Pragmatists also believe in no unequivocal truths or values existing. David Hume argues that, no proof can be derived from any fact, of which we are so intimately apprised nor is there anything of which we can be certain, if we surmise this (Treatise 2645). Humes empiricist ideals were roots to early pragmatic thought, by way of the theory that, in our reality, nothing is certain and everything that can be sensed must be constantly qualified to find a place in reality.Humes position on our experiences deciding our veracity follows the school of pragmatism by staying international from any conclusive ideals. Thus, his angle on empiricism melds with pragmatism on the level of determining ones selfs existence. Similar to Descartes, he explains that even, and more often than not as per constant perception, metaphysical experience can mo ld ones identity. And were all my perceptions removed by stopping point . . . I should be entirely annihilated, nor do I conceive what is farther requisite to make me a perfect nonentity (2645). Based so intemperately in perception, he further deduces that when insensible during sleep and all perception of environment lies dormant, existence may halt (2645).Hume speculates most closely on miracles and opens his turn out with the stance that, A miracle is a violation of the laws of nature . . . the proof against a miracle, from the very nature of the fact, is as entire as any argument from experience can possibly be imagined (Enquiry 2647). He continues throughout his essay, supporting his claim and also breaking down Christianity, highly-based in such phenomena, proving the impossibility of the existence of miracles. This apparent motion is something a pragmatist would argue against, firmly believing in there being nothing absolute. Yet, despite his resistance he concludes, whoev er is moved by faith . . . is conscious of a continued miracle in his own person . . . and gives him a determination to believe what is most contrary to custom and experience (2650). This statement, although a bit foreign to his thesis, appeases to pragmatist thought, allowing for an explanation to those who are still determined to believe in miracles and the like and allows for them to own an identity under his definition.It is at this end where his level of pragmatism veers from Charles Peirce to William crowd together end of the spectrum.