[A Treatise of Human Nature by David Hume]@TWC D-Link bookA Treatise of Human Nature PART II OF LOVE AND HATRED 10/118
Thus suppose, I regard a stone or any common object, that belongs either to me or my companion, and by that means acquires a relation of ideas to the object of the passions: It is plain, that to consider the matter a priori, no emotion of any kind can reasonably be expected.
For besides, that a relation of ideas operates secretly and calmly on the mind, it bestows an equal impulse towards the opposite passions of pride and humility, love and hatred, according as the object belongs to ourselves or others; which opposition of the passions must destroy both, and leave the mind perfectly free from any affection or emotion.
This reasoning a priori is confirmed by experience.
No trivial or vulgar object, that causes not a pain or pleasure, independent of the passion, will ever, by its property or other relations either to ourselves or others, be able to produce the affections of pride or humility, love or hatred. Third Experiment.
It is evident, therefore, that a relation of ideas is not able alone to give rise to these affections.
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