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Hume without Spontaneous Order

Author

Listed:
  • John Salter

    (University of Manchester)

Abstract

The question whether it is possible to be both a Humean and a contractarian arises from the interpretation of Hume as a theorist of spontaneous order, a theory that is usually taken to be incompatible with contractarianism. I argue that this interpretation is unconvincing and anachronistic. The real reason why it is problematic to view Hume as a contractarian is not because he is proponent of spontaneous order, but because he is a virtue-ethicist. I argue that Hume adopted and elaborated on the natural law account of the origins of property as conventional, but provided a different and separate account of the obligation to respect property rights.

Suggested Citation

  • John Salter, 2015. "Hume without Spontaneous Order," Rationality, Markets and Morals, Frankfurt School Verlag, Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, vol. 6(94), May.
    • Handle: RePEc:rmm:journl:v:6:y:2015:i:94
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