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René Descartes

Meditations on First Philosophy

"Meditations on First Philosophy" is a seminal work in modern Western philosophy, written by the renowned French philosopher, mathematician, and scientist René Descartes. First published in 1641, this philosophical treatise is divided into six meditations, in which Descartes systematically explores the nature of knowledge, reality, and God, with the aim of establishing a foundation for a secure system of knowledge. In the first meditation, Descartes famously raises the problem of skepticism and doubts all his beliefs, leading him to the famous dictum "Cogito, ergo sum" (I think, therefore I am). This statement becomes the starting point for his quest for certainty, as he seeks to build a new system of knowledge from the ground up. Throughout the meditations, Descartes examines the nature of the external world, the existence of God, and the relationship between the mind and the body. He argues that the external world is subject to doubt, as our senses can deceive us, but that God's existence can be proven through reason. He also posits that the mind and the body are distinct entities, a theory known as mind-body dualism. Descartes' work has had a profound influence on Western philosophy, and his ideas continue to be studied and debated by scholars and philosophers today. His contributions to the fields of metaphysics, epistemology, and the philosophy of mind have shaped the way we think about the nature of reality, knowledge, and consciousness. This edition of "Meditations on First Philosophy" includes Descartes' original Latin text, along with an English translation, making it accessible to readers who may not be fluent in Latin. It also includes an introduction and notes by a leading scholar of Descartes' work, providing valuable context and insight for readers looking to explore the ideas presented in this classic philosophical text. Overall, "Meditations on First Philosophy" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Western philosophy, the nature of knowledge, or the relationship between the mind and the body. Its enduring relevance and influence make it a vital text for anyone seeking to understand the foundations of modern Western thought...