Of Suicide
Of Suicide by David Hume, published by COSIMO CLASSICS on June 29, 2020, is an 18-page essay that explores the philosophical implications of suicide. Originally intended for a 1755 collection titled Five Dissertations, Hume ultimately withdrew this work, which was later published anonymously in 1777. In this edition, Hume presents his examination of suicide, arguing that the ability to end one’s life is a power granted by the gods, and he asserts that such an act does not harm society.
Readers will find Hume’s insights delve into themes of individual autonomy and the ethical considerations surrounding the act of suicide. The essay engages with concepts from philosophy and moral philosophy, particularly focusing on free will and determinism. This concise work invites reflection on the nature of life and the rights of individuals to make choices about their existence.
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“No man ever threw away life while it was worth keeping.” –David Hume
The essay, Of Suicide, was originally planned for publication in a 1755 collection called Five Dissertations. However, philosopher David Hume decided to withdraw this and another essay (Of the Immortality of the Soul). Both these essays were published anonymously and posthumously in 1777. The current edition follows the 1755 version.
In this essay, Hume examines suicide by stating that the gods granted the powers to humans to live and therefore end their own lives. In addition, he argues that committing suicide does not harm society. As often, Hume sides with the individual’s autonomy to live one’s life.
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