This possibility is converted into certainty by
further observation, when they remark that, upon an exact scrutiny,
a contrariety of effects always betrays a contrariety of causes,
and proceeds from their mutual opposition. A peasant can give no
better reason for the stopping of any clock or watch, than to say
that it does not commonly go right. But an artist easily perceives
that the same force in the spring or pendulum has always the same
influence on the wheels; but fails of its usual effect, perhaps by
reason of a grain of dust, which puts a stop to the whole movement.
From the observation of several parallel instances, philosophers
form a maxim, that the connexion between all causes and effects is
equally necessary, and that its seeming uncertainty in some
instances proceeds from the secret opposition of contrary
causes."--(IV. pp. 101-2.)
So with regard to human actions:--
"The internal principles and motives may operate in a uniform
manner, notwithstanding these seeming irregularities; in the same
manner as the winds, rains, clouds, and other variations of the
weather are supposed to be governed by steady principles; though
not easily discoverable by human sagacity and inquiry."--(IV. p.
103.)
Meteorology, as a science, was not in existence in Hume's time, or he
would have left out the "supposed to be." In practice, again, what
difference does any one make between natural and moral evidence?
"A prisoner who has neither money nor interest, discovers the
impossibility of his escape, as well when he considers the
obstinacy of the gaoler, as the walls and bars with which he is
surrounded; and, in all attempts for his freedom, chooses rather to
work upon the stone and iron of the one, than upon the inflexible
nature of the other.
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