근대 유럽의 도덕론과 흄

Abstract

This is a study on Hume who suggested empiricist theory of morality that tries to secure universality and objectivity of morality based on feeling. The general tendency of moral theory during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries in Europe which has effect on Hume's theory of morality will be illuminated as a starting point of this study and an attempt to examine Hume's moral theory in relation to European moral theory during the period will be made. During this period in Europe including Britain, 4 types of moral theories, which are natural law theories, moral rationalism, moral egoism, and moral sense theories were competing one another on the question of what constitutes the foundations of morality. The researcher looks into the relation between Hume and these 4 moral theories. As a result, the conclusions the reasercher reaches, are that moral sense theories have a direct and dominant influence on Hume's moral theory, and that Hume's moral theory turns out to be the product of a dynamic interaction with the rest three theories, which are natural law theories, moral rationalism and moral egoism. Through the study on theoretical background of Hume's moral theory, together with an inter-systematic inquiry into Hume's moral theory, the researcher is certain that an important understanding about Hume's moral theory can be gained. Furthermore, this study focuses not only on highlighting factors that affect Hume's moral theory, but it is also expected to make a contribution to exposing the distinctiveness and originality of Hume's moral theory.