David Hume

David Hume (1711-1776) was a Scottish philosopher, historian and essayist. He was a controversial figure, known for his religious sceptisism (a dangerous position at the time - he wanted to make a career as an academic, but was always denied an academic post due to his apparent atheism). He is often cited as a principle influence on many important figures in philosophy and science, including Immanuel Kant, Charles Darwin and Thomas Huxley, amongst others.

In this BBC podcast, his life and legacy are discussed: