René Descartes

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René Descartes Questions and Answers

How does Descartes use the notion of divisibility to argue that the mind exists independently from the body?

How does Descartes define what it means to be human, and what is the signifcance of the definition?

On Descartes' view, can we ever know the other minds exist? Why or why not?

Examine the implications behind Descartes's statement: "If you would be a real seeker after truth, it is necessary that at least once in your life you doubt, as far as possible, all things."

What does Descartes mean when he writes that the phrase "I think, I am" must "necessarily be true"? First, can you think of any instance in which it would be false? Then, why is this so important to his project?

What is the point of Descartes imagining that an evil genius is deceiving him?

What is the explanation of "je pense donc je suis?"

Explain the theory of substance (Cartesian) dualism. Consider the nature of minds and bodies, according to Descartes.

Explain Descartes’s theory of substances.

What is René Descartes's philosophy on how can we know anything?

According to Descartes, what is the relationship between the mind and the body? After you explain his position, explain in detail some of the difficulties that arose from that position.

According to Descartes, how can we be sure that corporeal (or material) things really do exist outside our minds?

How did Descartes ensure that he didn't hold any false beliefs?

What are three reasons why Descartes proved God's existence? What did he solve by proving it?

Does Descartes view of mastery of nature as a moral obligation?

How is philosophy connected to natural science? Explain and critically evaluate the position of Descartes. If you wish, you may also bring in the perspective of Boethius and/or Plato.

What do the philosophers Descartes and Locke think it means to be conscious?

What is ultimately known about physical objects according to Descartes, and what is his guarantee that it can be known? Note his discussion of the essence of material things in Meditation V. What are some implications of his conclusions on what can and cannot be known?

Why does Descartes question knowledge so much? Does he really have knowledge himself?

Explain what Descartes means in saying philosophy requires a new foundation in terms of mathematical theorems and postulates.