Hume's "of the Standard of Taste": 20 Key Concepts

David Hume's "Of the Standard of Taste" is a philosophical essay in which Hume discusses the concept of beauty and taste. Hume argues that the ability to judge beauty is not a matter of reason, but rather a matter of taste. He also discusses the role of simplicity and grandeur in the creation of beauty, stating that these two principles should be balanced in order to achieve true beauty. Hume's essay is notable for its exploration of the subjectivity of taste and its implications for aesthetics. The Standard of Taste: Hume asserts that there is a "standard of taste" that allows individuals to judge the beauty and merit of different works of art. This standard is based on the principles of "utility, propriety, and agreeableness," which are universal and inherent in human nature. The Role of Experience: Hume argues that experience plays a crucial role in shaping our taste and understanding of beauty. He suggests that exposure to a wide range of wo…