Freedom and Moral Sentiment

David Hume is generally credited with the classic statement of the `compatibilist' position in the free will dispute. In this study it is argued that Hume's views on this subject, although largely influential, have nevertheless been seriously misrepresented. Classical readings have entirely overlooked Hume's naturalistic concerns and commitments, those very aspects of his general strategy which are of particular significance to the contemporary discussion. First study devoted entirely to Hume's influential views on freedom and responsibility. Gives historical context not only of Hume's laying foundation for a naturalistic approach to issues of moral sentiment and its relevance to problems of responsibility and free will, but also of Hume's anticipation of elements of contemporary discussion on these issues.