Exploring the Philosophy of Francis Hutcheson: Foundations of Moral Sentiment and Ethics

Introduction This paper aims to explore the philosophical contributions of Francis Hutcheson, particularly in the realms of moral sentiment and ethics. Hutcheson, an 18th-century Scottish philosopher, is often regarded as a precursor to modern moral philosophy and a significant figure in the development of the Scottish Enlightenment. His ideas concerning human nature, moral sentiments, and ethical behavior provide a foundation for understanding morality that diverges from rationalist approaches. This report will analyze Hutcheson’s key concepts, such as the innate sense of moral approval and disapproval, the role of benevolence in ethical considerations, and the implications of his thought for contemporary moral philosophy.

Main Body Hutcheson’s work is primarily articulated in his seminal text, “An Inquiry into the Goo