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Hume’s Theory of Causation. I. RELATIONS OF IDEAS Geometry, Algebra, ans Arithmetic Known a priori Necessary and Universal (Exceptionless) If A then B A Therefore, B II. MATTERS OF FACT Known by induction, i.e. experience of distinct impressions
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Hume’s Theory of Causation I. RELATIONS OF IDEAS Geometry, Algebra, ans Arithmetic Known a priori Necessary and Universal (Exceptionless) If A then B A Therefore, B II. MATTERS OF FACT Known by induction, i.e. experience of distinct impressions Proposition expressing matters of fact always contingent “the contrary of every matter of fact is still possible because it can never imply a contradiction”
Hume’s Theory of Causation Distinct Event A T1S1 Distinct Event B T2S2 1. Contiguity in space & Time 2. Regular connection Btw, A & B Hume’s Theory of Identity Object A1 is not equal to A T2S2 Object A T1S1 A B C D E Z Overdetermined, if A & B are correlates only Z Underdetermined F G H Event Z
Causation • Distinct impressions of A following or cojoined with B • Contiguity in space & Time • Regular connection between A & B • Habit forces ‘belief’ in necessary connection • A & B are distinct • Otherwise you have one object • Idea of a necessary cause is thus a ‘Matter of Fact’ • Scientific laws are stated as necessary & universal, but are based on observation • Hence, No inductive observation (confirmatory instances) of distinct impressions can ever assure causal necessity
