..all arguments concerning existence are founded on the relation of cause and effect; that our knowledge of that relation is derived entirely from experience; and all our experimental conclusions proceed upon the supposition that the future will be conformable to the past. .... Without the influence of custom, we should be entirely ignorant of every matter of fact beyond what is immediately present to the memory and senses.
David HumeDo you come to a philosopher as to a cunning man, to learn something by magic or witchcraft, beyond what can be known by common prudence and discretion?
David HumeIn a vain man, the smallest spark may kindle into the greatest flame, because the materials are always prepared for it.
David HumeNothing endears so much a friend as sorrow for his death. The pleasure of his company has not so powerful an influence.
David HumeIt is still open for me, as well as you, to regulate my behavior, by my experience of past events.
David HumeThe many instances of forged miracles, and prophecies, and supernatural events, which, in all ages, have either been detected by contrary evidence, or which detect themselves by their absurdity, prove sufficiently the strong propensity of mankind to the extraordinary and marvellous, and ought reasonably to begat a suspicion against all relations of this kind.
David Hume