Hope in Hume: A study in David Hume's philosophy of religion

This dissertation confronts the problem of how to classify the contributions of David Hume to the philosophy of religion. Regarded by some as an atheist, others as a deist, and even more as a sceptic---as well as both a fideist and infidel---Hume studies lack a precise method by which to assess Hume on religion. This is understandable given Hume's own imprecision and intentional lack of clarity on some important religious questions. Yet, by positing Hume's use of hope as the 'way in' to Hume's philosophy of religion this dissertation uncovers a means to Hume's 'true religion.'; The argument here contends that there are two types of hope in the work of David Hume: direct passion hopes, which Hume explicitly describes; and fundamental hope---an objectless disposition towards the future which remains implicit in Hume's philosophical and religious project. Through an analysis of four of Hume's most important texts, the Treatise and first Enquiry and the Natural History of Religion and Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion, this dissertation illuminates Hume's variegated uses of hope. The argument details the direct passion hopes and their importance for Hume but it especially targets the implicit hope woven throughout Hume's writings and practiced in his life. This fundamental hope, as yet uncovered in Hume, serves as a means of understanding Hume's idea of true religion.; On the argument that follows, fundamental hope manifests in the action of equanimity; it is this very equanimity which serves to moderate the passions and improve the quality of life. Hume's his positive contribution to philosophy and religion---embodied in his fundamental hope---not only helps ground his concept of 'true religion' but it also shows that situating Hume as a skeptic misunderstands the profound natural hope and trust which undergird his life and thought.