David Hume: 'Human Nature is the only science of man; and yet has been hitherto the most neglected.'

Human Nature is the only science of man; and yet has been hitherto the most neglected.

In the realm of philosophy, David Hume's quote, "Human Nature is the only science of man; and yet has been hitherto the most neglected," encapsulates a profound observation that continues to resonate with our understanding of our own existence. Simply put, Hume asserts that the study of human nature is essential to comprehending the complexities of mankind, yet it has historically been an overlooked or neglected area of inquiry. This quote urges us to recognize the significance of delving into the depths of human nature and understanding its intricacies. However, to shed light on an unexpected philosophical concept and foster interest in this article, let us explore Hume's quote through the lens of existentialism, a school of thought that provides insights into the human condition.To begin with, Hume's quote emphasizes the importance of understanding human nature as a science of its parallel subjects – humankind. While scientific inquiry has flourished in numerous fields like physics, biology, and chemistry, our understanding of ourselves seems to have taken a backseat. Hume suggests that exploring the vast and diverse terrain of human nature, encompassing thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and motivations, is a fundamental endeavor that deserves attention and rigorous examination. It is vital because comprehending human nature can ultimately illuminate our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.Now, let us delve into an unexpected philosophical concept – existentialism – to bring a captivating perspective to the article. Existentialism emphasizes individual experience, freedom, and the inherent sense of meaninglessness in human existence. The existentialists believed that by embracing our unique individuality and the uncertainty of existence, we can construct our own meaning and purpose in life. This concept resonates with Hume's quote as it emphasizes the immense significance of understanding human nature as a means to discovering our individual path in a seemingly chaotic world.The intersection of Hume's quote with existentialism brings forth an interesting dichotomy. While Hume highlights the neglected importance of studying human nature, existentialism sheds light on the individual's responsibility to shape their own understanding of themselves and the meaning they derive from life. The negligence surrounding the study of human nature might be attributed to societal emphasis on external achievements, science, and objective knowledge.Existentialism encourages us to turn inward and explore our own essence, thereby potentially unearthing a deeper understanding of human nature not only as a scientific pursuit but as a personal journey of self-discovery. By embracing the philosophy of existentialism, we can reclaim the exploration of human nature from the realm of neglect and weave it into the fabric of our individual lives.In conclusion, David Hume's poignant quote highlights the neglected importance of studying human nature as a science of man. It urges us to redirect our attention to the intricacies of our own existence, recognizing that deepening our understanding of human nature ultimately enhances our knowledge of humanity as a whole. By embracing the philosophical concepts of existentialism, we can bridge the gap between neglect and self-discovery, transforming the study of human nature into a personal and meaningful journey. Let us not overlook this vital science any longer, but instead, delve into the depths of human nature to illuminate the mysteries of our existence.