Reflections Concerning Innate Moral Principles

Reflections Concerning Innate Moral Principles is a philosophical work by Henry Bolingbroke, a prominent English statesman and philosopher of the 18th century. In this book, Bolingbroke explores the concept of innate moral principles and argues that such principles are not only inherent in human nature but also essential for the development of a just and virtuous society.Bolingbroke begins by examining the nature of human beings and their capacity for reason and moral judgment. He argues that humans possess an innate sense of morality that is not dependent on external factors such as religion or social norms. This innate moral sense, according to Bolingbroke, is based on the principles of reason and natural law.The author then goes on to discuss the role of innate moral principles in shaping human behavior and society. He argues that these principles provide a foundation for ethical behavior and social order, and that they are essential for the development of a just and virtuous society.Throughout the book, Bolingbroke draws on the ideas of other philosophers such as John Locke and Francis Hutcheson to support his arguments. He also critiques the ideas of other thinkers, such as Thomas Hobbes and David Hume, who he believes do not give enough weight to the importance of innate moral principles.Overall, Reflections Concerning Innate Moral Principles is a thought-provoking work that explores the nature of human morality and its role in shaping society. It is a must-read for anyone interested in philosophy, ethics, or the history of ideas.1752. We have an immediate and intuitive knowledge of our own existence and from thence results the greatest certainty we are capable of: shall we not have the same knowledge, the same certainty, that compassion is not an accidental affection, but an original and constituent part of our Being? and as we perceive that we derive our existence from some other than ourselves, shall we not also perceive that we derive our compassion wholly from our nature? Written in French and translated into Old English on the facing page. This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.