Elizabeth S. Radcliffe presents an original interpretation of David Hume's famous theory of action and motivation, according to which passion and reason cannot be opposed over the direction of action. She argues that according to Hume beliefs cannot move us to action without feeling, and she explores the implications for Hume's theory of morality.

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Reading Radcliffe's book is an excellent reminder of how far the history of philosophy has matured in the last fifty years. It is also an object lesson in the philosophical value of such study. As with evolution, later does not always mean better, and few moral philosophers or moral psychologists can afford to ignore the riches work such as hers unveils. For scholars of Hume, and of his seventeenth and eighteenth century context, it will be indispensable.