''a power of acting or not acting, according to the determinations of the will'8.23
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The will determines whether we act or refrain from acting.
- In plain terms
- We decide what to do or not do.
- What can you take from it?
- Choice is central to human action.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you feel free to choose?
- What limits your will?
Another view
It assumes the will is always free.
More from David Hume
Where men are the most sure and arrogant, they are commonly the most mistaken, and have there given reins to passion, without that proper deliberation and susp…
Permalink to quote #30 As every enquiry, which regards religion, is of the utmost importance, there are two questions in particular, which challenge our attention, to wit, that conce…
Permalink to quote #32 In all determinations of morality, this circumstance of public utility is ever principally in view; and wherever disputes arise, either in philosophy or common…
Permalink to quote #29
Related quotes
What interest, zest, or excitement can there be in achieving the right way, unless we are enabled to feel that the wrong way is also a possible and a natural w…
William JamesWilliam James quote #2 Don't tell me that man doesn't belong out there. Man belongs wherever he wants to go - and he'll do plenty well when he gets there.
Wernher von BraunWernher von Braun quote #1 Freedom of choice is what you got / freedom from choice is what you want.
DevoDevo quote #4