Review Of The Concept Of Justice In Hume

David Hume was one of the most prominent figures of classic liberalism and empiricism. With his theory of justice of utilitarianism based on empirical philosophy, Hume gave his unique insight on the origin of society, of property right, of the justice , and its relation to the political society. Hume's theory of justice in utilitarianism, which gave solid theoretical base for the quick development of laissez-faire capitalism, had not only a deep effect on contemporary political theory , made but also a great contribution to the development of political civilization as well.It is a pity , however, that we haven't studied Hume' political philosophy for a long time in China. All that we have knew about Hume' idea are his epistemology, his skepticism and empiricism, with little about his politic philosophy and even nothing about his theory of justice. This, of course, is apparently against his principal aim of "the science of human nature", and is far behind the study pace of political philosophy at present in the west. Thus, this thesis gives a primary card and an objective explanation to Hume original meaning. There are 3 parts and 1 conclusion in this thesis:Part I generally introduces the historical origin , philosophy base and proving method of the theory of justice, as well as his main points about justice. The emphasis is on experimentally scientific experimental method, the tend ness of utilitarianism and the theory of covenant.Part II lays emphasis on analyzing property right which are based on the theory of justice, describes the origin and content of property right and obligation, and explants the difference between the idea of justice Hume's and Lock's, then, identifies the important role of justice to right.Part III will mainly discuss the relation between justice and government, with analyzing the origin , development and dying out of the government, Hume had proved such a view: Government is only a tool invented by man to judge and execute justice, which is the spirit of government. This can be a revelation to contemporary government theory.The conclusion mainly points out the essence of Hume's political philosophy, together with its influence on and revelation to us.