Judgments are based on past experiences from "summary" of An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding by David Hume
When we make judgments, we often believe that they are based on reason and rationality. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that our judgments are actually rooted in our past experiences. Our minds have a tendency to associate ideas with one another based on our previous encounters with them. This process of association is so ingrained in our thinking that we may not even be aware of it happening. For instance, when we see a flame, we immediately think of heat. This connection is not the result of logical deduction, but rather the product of our past experiences with flames and heat. Similarly, when we witness an event, we often rely on our memories of similar events to make sense of it. Our judgments are thus shaped by the impressions that have been imprinted on our minds through past encounters. Hume argues that our beliefs are not based on abstract reasoning, but rather on the vividness and liveliness of our impressions. The more intense our experiences, the stronger our beliefs become. This explains why certain beliefs are deeply ingrained in us, even when they may lack logical coherence. Moreover, our judgments are influenced by custom and habit. We have a tendency to rely on past patterns of behavior and thought when making decisions. This is why we often follow traditions and conventions without questioning their validity. Our minds are predisposed to follow familiar paths, even if they may not lead to the most rational conclusions.- Our judgments are a product of our past experiences, which shape the way we perceive and interpret the world around us. By understanding the role of past impressions in our thinking, we can gain insight into the mechanisms behind our beliefs and behaviors. This awareness can help us approach our judgments with a critical eye, questioning the assumptions and biases that may be influencing our thinking.
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