This volume covers the life, philosophy, and influence of David Hume. The first three chapters are devoted to a narrative of the events of Hume’s life. The next four chapters explore Hume’s epistemology, particularly his first principles, his doctrine of cause and effect, and his doctrine of substance. Orr then covers Hume’s writings on theology and morals, and then explores a few of Hume’s miscellaneous writings. Chapters include:
Dr. Orr has given us a model account of Hume and his philosophy. Written in an easy and lucid style, it sets before us first the man and the his teaching with an adequacy and sharpness of outline which leave little to be desired. The freshness and vigor with which Dr. Orr accomplishes this task are very striking and make the book a refreshing and instructive contribution to present-day thought.
James Orr (1844–1913) was minister of the East Bank United Presbyterian Church in Hawick, Scotland, from 1874–1891, and professor of church history in the Theological College of the United Presbyterian Church of Scotland from 1874–1901. From 1901, he was professor of apologetics and theology at Glasgow College of the United Free Church. He was among the chief promoters for the union between the Free and United Presbyterian Churches in Scotland. He lectured at seminaries all over the world and was a prolific writer and editor.
Orr served as the editor for the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, 1915 Edition, contributed four volumes to the The Pulpit Commentary, and is featured in The Fundamentals (4 vols.).