Ancient Quote by David Hume
“From the apparent usefulness of the social virtues, it has readily been inferred by sceptics, both ancient and modern, that all moral distinctions arise from education, and were, at first, invented, and afterwards encouraged ... in order to render men tractable, and subdue their natural ferocity and selfishness, which incapacitated them for society.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: A Treatise of Human Nature, 1739
Moral virtues are social constructs created to tame innate selfishness and aggression, making people cooperative.
In simple terms: Virtues are invented to control selfishness.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how education shapes morality.
Themes
ethics
society
human nature
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- education reform
- community building
- conflict resolution
- leadership training
Key Concepts
social contract
moral psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do cultural differences affect moral education?
- Can virtue be cultivated without coercion?
A Different Perspective
Some argue innate morality exists independent of education.
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