著者

石川 徹

出版者

香川大学

雑誌

香川大学教育学部研究報告. 第I部 (ISSN:04549309)

巻号頁・発行日

vol.122, pp.7-14, 2004

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The chief objective of this paper is to examine Reid's theory of "passions". We use the word "passions" not only in Reid's way, but in common usage in 18th century, because we can best understand his theory in contrast with his contemporary philosophers, especially David Hume. First, we observe that Reid's conception of causation, that is, agent causation determines his general philosophical scheme and that human action is the most important subject of his inquiry. Secondly, we survey three kinds of action principles, mechanical principles, animal principles, and rational principles. In effect we find Reid thinks all of the principles are equally important for human existence and happiness. But these factors sometimes will be very violent and destroy the harmony in mind, so must be under control of reason and will. Finally, we evaluate the possibility of Reid's theory, in contrast with Hume's theory. They are very different in their conceptual scheme, but have much in common in weighing the value of our ordinary life. If Reid would pay attention to our particular passions, he could have developed a very interesting anthropology.