Selections

'Selections' provides a comprehensive overview of the foundational writings of René Descartes, the 17th-century French philosopher often heralded as the father of modern philosophy. This volume compiles essential excerpts from his most influential works, including 'Discourse on the Method', 'Meditations on First Philosophy', and 'The Principles of Philosophy'. Through these texts, readers explore Descartes’ revolutionary approach to human knowledge, characterized by his rigorous use of methodological doubt and his quest for indubitable certainty.At the heart of this collection is the development of rationalism and the famous assertion, 'I think, therefore I am.' The selections delve into arguments regarding the existence of God, the distinction between mind and body (Cartesian dualism), and the application of mathematical certainty to the study of the physical world. By bridging the gap between science and philosophy, Descartes paved the way for the Enlightenment and the advancement of modern intellectual inquiry. This anthology serves as an indispensable resource for understanding the transition from medieval scholasticism to a world defined by reason and systematic observation, making it a vital addition to any library of classical thought.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.