David Hume Timeline and Summary

Hume starts by pointing out the mistakes that other moral philosophers have made.
Outlining his own theory, Hume insists that morality isn't just about reason but sentiment.
Hume singles out two major virtues: benevolence and justice. He explains that benevolence is a natural virtue, while justice was created to serve a purpose.
While some folks may think we're all selfish at heart, Hume argues that we have a natural sense of humanity and compassion.
Hume highlights the importance of utility and agreeableness, singling them out as the main qualities that make something a virtue.
Going against the grain, Hume criticizes "monkish virtues" like solitude, fasting, and self-denial (which he sees as neither useful nor agreeable).
Hume recognizes that some people can be greedy or give in to temptation, but he argues that, morally, they gain nothing of value.
In the book's appendices, Hume recaps his main arguments: reason and sentiment factor into morality, we're not totally self-centered, and justice has been created whereas benevolence is instinctive.
Hume's final point is that there's no need to obsess over wording. Call it a "blemish," "a fault," or whatever, it's the same kind of thing.