Super Short Summary

An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals by David Hume (1751) offers an empirical and systematic exploration of moral theory and judgment. Hume argues that morality stems from sentiment rather than reason, emphasizing the social utility of virtues like benevolence and justice. He contends that moral behavior is driven by a desire for approval and interconnected through social sympathy, asserting that useful and agreeable qualities foster happiness and societal harmony. Hume discusses issues related to gender norms, societal expectations, and virtue.