Synthese (2006) 152:393–401 DOI 10.1007/s11229-006-9005-4 ORIGINAL PAPER Strength of mind: Prospects and problems for a Humean account Jane L. Mcintyre Published online: 12 October 2006 © Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2006 Abstract References to strength of mind, a character trait implying “the prevalence of the calm passions above the violent”, occur in a number of important discussions of motivation in the Treatise and the Enquiry concerning the Principles of Morals. Nevertheless, Hume says surprisingly little about what strength of mind is, or how it is achieved. This paper argues that Hume’s theory of the passions can provide an interesting and defensible account of strength of mind. The paper concludes with a brief comparison of Humean strength of mind with autonomy. Keywords Hume · Passions · Virtues · Strength of Mind 1 Introduction “When we would govern a man,” Hume wrote in the Treatise, “and push him to any action, ‘twill commonly be better policy to work upon the violent than the calm pas- sions, and rather take him by his inclination, than what is vulgarly called his reason” (T 2.3.4.1; SBN 419). 1 Hume’s judgment here is more practical than cynical. The calm passions, including the sentiments of moral approval and disapproval, are often weak. Those seeking to gain the cooperation of others will fare better if they appeal to passions such as avidity and the love of fame, as politicians, and orators know. But 1 All references to Hume’s works will be given in the body of the paper. The following editions and conventions have been used: For citations to A Treatise of Human Nature: Hume (2000). References to this edition indicate the book, part, section number and paragraph of the material cited, preceded by T. For the convenience of the reader, page numbers will also be given to Hume (1978), preceded by SBN. For citations to An Enquiry concerning the Principles of Morals: Hume (1998). References to this edition indicate the section, part, and paragraph numbers, preceded by EPM. For the convenience of the reader, page numbers will also be given to Hume (1975), preceded by SBN. For citations to A Dissertation on the Passions: Hume (1964) J. L. Mcintyre (B ) Department of Philosophy, Cleveland State University, 2121 Euclid Avenue, RT 1932, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA e-mail: j.mcintyre@csuohio.edu