The Will as an Instance of Meaning of the Self in David Hume

The notion of subjectivity characterises modern philosophical reflection to a large extent. Among the faculties or operations that make up the subject, the will seems to be central as a determining factor in men’s actions and in the knowledge they derive from them. As such, the philosophy of David Hume (1711-1776) provides us with a reflective source for understanding human nature, in other words, for analysing the ’I’, consciousness or the mind. This work aims to develop such an analysis by pointing to the concept of will as a fundamental instance through which the Self understands itself through its actions. It understands itself, therefore, not only by describing to itself the succession of its affections and thoughts, but also by interpreting or signifying itself in this incessant mental flux.