How we cite our quotes: Section.Part (if applicable).Paragraph
Quote #4
But in ancient times, when no man could make a figure without the talent of speaking, and when the audience were too delicate to bear such crude, undigested harangues as our extemporary orators offer to public assemblies; the faculty of memory was then of the utmost consequence, and was accordingly much more valued than at present. (V.I.19)
This is a point that Hume makes again and again: what's seen as useful and agreeable can depend on the society and time period we're talking about. Public speaking was a must for anyone seeking a rep in ancient times. Only the best would do, and audiences were seriously tough. That's why memory was so valued: it was vital skill for any public speaker.
Quote #5
Sympathy, we shall allow, is much fainter than our concern for ourselves, and sympathy with persons remote from us much fainter than that with persons near and contiguous; but for this very reason it is necessary for us, in our calm judgements and discourse concerning the characters of men, to neglect all these differences, and render our sentiments more public and social. (V.II.27)
This quote shows that Hume's a realist—he doesn't imagine we're living in some magical place where everyone's super-caring and nice. It's only natural that our strongest feelings should center on ourselves and those closest to us. What Hume's saying, though, is that it's precisely for this reason that we sometimes need to put aside our bias and think, "hmm, what's best for society?"
Quote #6
In most countries of Europe, family, that is, hereditary riches, marked with titles and symbols from the sovereign, is the chief source of distinction. In England, more regard is paid to present opulence [...] Where birth is respected, unactive, spiritless minds remain in haughty indolence, and dream of nothing but pedigrees and genealogies: the generous and ambitious seek honour and authority, and reputation and favour. Where riches are the chief idol, corruption, venality, rapine prevail: arts, manufactures, commerce, agriculture flourish. (VI.II.13)
Here's another example of culture clash. In Hume's days, status in most of Europe was all about family name and the riches that folks inherited; in England, though, it was more about a person's current wealth. We're not saying one is wrong and the other's right. When it's all about the family line, this can lead to people becoming lazy and entitled (boo!), but it can also lead to ambitious types seeking a reputation (yay!). When it's all about current riches, meanwhile, people can become corrupt and dishonest, but major industries can make a tidy profit. So, what we're saying is there are pros and cons on both sides.