William Hamilton (philosopher)

William Hamilton (1828–1902) was a Scottish philosopher best known for developing a psychological theory of moral values and emotions. He argued that human morality arises from innate feelings like sympathy and benevolence, which motivate moral judgments and actions. Hamilton believed that our sense of right and wrong is rooted in natural emotional responses rather than external rules or divine commands. His ideas contributed to utilitarianism and influenced later thinkers by emphasizing the importance of human nature and emotions in understanding morality and ethical behavior.