Hume on Religion Analytical Essay by Shaad

In this article, the writer examines Hume's views on religion with specific reference to the notion that the existence of God may be proved. With reference to the essay "Of a Particular Providence and of a Future State", the essay shows how Hume refutes the "argument from design". The writer shows how the conclusion that God's existence has been proved leads to paradoxes, specifically in relation to "cause and effect" and providence, leading Hume to conclude that the existence of God is purely a matter of faith. The writer also shows how Hume's epistemology is also based on faith, and therefore his version of empirical skepticism is properly called "mitigated skepticism". Finally, the writer shows how Hume's agnosticism is consistent with his statements regarding religion.