David Hume 
Of the Standard of Taste 

In ‘Of the Standard of Taste’ by David Hume, the author delves into the elusive concept of aesthetic judgment and the criteria by which we determine artistic beauty. Written in a clear and analytical style, Hume explores the subjective nature of taste and the universality of certain principles of beauty. Drawing on examples from literature, art, and music, Hume presents a compelling argument for the existence of a standard of taste that can be applied across different cultures and time periods, challenging the prevailing notion of taste as purely subjective. Hume’s work stands as a seminal piece in the field of aesthetics, influencing generations of philosophers and art critics. Its relevance in the ongoing discourse on beauty and art cannot be understated. David Hume, a renowned Scottish philosopher of the 18th century, was known for his empiricist views and contributions to epistemology and metaphysics. His profound insights into human nature and the limits of reason inform his exploration of aesthetics in this work. ‘Of the Standard of Taste’ is a must-read for anyone interested in the philosophy of art and the nuances of aesthetic judgment, offering a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of beauty and its significance in our lives.