Abstract

This work analyses the theory of causality presented by the Scottish philosopher David Hume in his Treatise on Human Nature. It proposes, as a central argument, that the idea of causal relation comes from a reflexive impression and assumes the form of an imaginary belief, whose object is a constant conjunction. Starting by analyzing the concepts of impressions and ideas, over which Hume elaborates his theory of perception, this text explores the basis of the process of association of ideas, and identifies the notion of causality as a mode of it. A brief study of the political effects of such a conception of causality, based on belief and perception habits, gives a conclusion to this article.