What is subjectivism ? Discuss David Hume’s views on ethical subjectivism.

Subjectivism in Ethics

Ethical subjectivism is a philosophical position asserting that moral judgments and values are grounded in individual subjectivity, varying from person to person. Unlike moral realism, which posits objective moral truths independent of personal perspectives, subjectivism contends that ethical claims are contingent upon personal feelings, beliefs, or opinions.

David Hume's Ethical Subjectivism

David Hume, an influential Scottish philosopher of the 18th century, made significant contributions to ethical subjectivism. His views are expounded in his seminal work, "A Treatise of Human Nature" and are characterized by a blend of empiricism and skepticism.

1. Empiricism as the Foundation:
   Hume's philosophical framework is rooted in empiricism, emphasizing the role of sensory experience in shaping human understanding. He argues that moral judgments are not derived from reason alone but are influenced by sentiments and emotions stemming from direct experiences.

2. Moral Sentiments and Emotions:
   According to Hume, moral distinctions are not products of reason but arise from sentiments and emotions. He introduces the concept of moral sentiments, asserting that our approval or disapproval of actions is based on feelings of approval or disapproval rather than objective moral facts. For Hume, morality is grounded in human psychology and emotions.

3. Impressions and Ideas:
   Hume distinguishes between impressions and ideas, with impressions being vivid and lively perceptions derived from direct experiences. Moral sentiments, he argues, are impressions that arise from observing actions and their consequences. These impressions, in turn, give rise to moral ideas, shaping our ethical judgments.

4. Custom and Habit as Influences:
   Hume underscores the role of custom and habit in shaping moral judgments. Through repeated observations of certain actions being praised or condemned, individuals develop habitual sentiments that form the basis of moral distinctions. This perspective aligns with subjectivism, as moral values are contingent on personal experiences and cultural influences.

5. Is-Ought Problem:
   Hume's famous "is-ought problem" challenges the transition from descriptive statements about the world (what 'is') to prescriptive statements about morality (what 'ought' to be). He argues that one cannot logically derive moral obligations from empirical observations alone. This position supports ethical subjectivism by highlighting the distinction between factual claims and value judgments.

6. No Universal Moral Standard:
   Hume rejects the existence of a universal moral standard applicable to all cultures and individuals. He contends that moral distinctions are inherently subjective, varying across different societies and personal perspectives. This aligns with the core tenet of ethical subjectivism, which denies the existence of objective moral truths.

7. The Role of Sympathy:
   Hume emphasizes the role of sympathy in moral judgments. He argues that individuals naturally sympathize with the sentiments and emotions of others, contributing to the formation of moral distinctions. This emphasis on shared emotional responses reinforces the subjectivist stance, as moral values are contingent on shared feelings within a community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, David Hume's ethical subjectivism is deeply rooted in empiricism, emphasizing the role of sentiments, emotions, and personal experiences in shaping moral judgments. Hume's rejection of universal moral standards, coupled with his focus on the subjective nature of moral distinctions, aligns with the key tenets of ethical subjectivism. His contributions to moral philosophy continue to influence contemporary debates on the nature of ethics and the subjectivity of moral values.