Selected Philosophical Writings: Discourse on Method, Meditations on First Philosophy, Selections from the Principles of Philosophy

In one volume, three of the most influential and significant philosophical works of René Descartes. This edition is based on the translations of John Veitch (1829-1894).

René Descartes (1596–1650) was a French philosopher and mathematician best known for his philosophical works, including his famous statement: “I think, therefore I am.” He is often referred to as the “Father of Modern Philosophy” for his innovative ideas and groundbreaking discoveries. Descartes attended Jesuit schools and received a law degree from the University of Poitiers. He then traveled extensively, visiting many countries and studying a variety of subjects. During this time, he developed his philosophical ideas which were based on his method of doubt. This method, which he called Cartesian Dualism, posited that reality consists of two separate realms – physical and mental. He argued that the physical world could be understood through science and mathematics, while the mental world could only be understood through introspection. Descartes also made major contributions to the fields of mathematics and science. His most famous work in mathematics is La Géométrie, which deals with the application of algebra to geometry. He also provided the first comprehensive explanation of the laws of motion in his treatise, La Principia. In addition to his work in mathematics, Descartes was also a pioneer in the field of optics, developing the theory of light refraction. Descartes was a key figure in the Scientific Revolution of the 17th century, and his works had a major influence on the development of modern philosophy. His ideas have been studied and debated by generations of scholars and are still relevant today. Descartes’ philosophy is a cornerstone of the Western intellectual tradition and is essential to a full understanding of modern thought.