Much philosophical reflection on friendship focuses on the relation between friendship and the state. In contrast to ancient notions of a natural harmony between well-governed states and virtuous friendships, Hume’s Essays suggest that there will be perennial tensions between public and private relationships. Our susceptibility to factionalism, and our tendency to let factions subvert our moral sensibility, contributes to these tensions. Moreover, the delicacy of taste that Hume recommends as supporting happiness may prove an obstacle to love of one’s fellow citizens, and therefore to public spirit. Hume recognizes the significance of friendship, however, and makes it central to his treatment of relations between men and women, especially in marriage. In general, Hume’s remarks about sexuality reveal a healthy and progressive attitude toward this important aspect of human life. But in his treatment of homosexuality and, to a lesser degree, gender equality, he retards rather than encourages improvement.