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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Discourse on Method summary
René Descartes
Brief summary
Discourse on Method is a philosophical work by René Descartes. In it, Descartes sets out his method for seeking truth through skepticism and reason, laying the foundation for modern rationalist philosophy.
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Table of Contents
Discourse on Method
Summary of key ideas
The Quest for Certainty
In Discourse on Method, René Descartes outlines his revolutionary method of breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts to find clear, definite solutions. His first step focuses on never accepting anything as true unless we recognize it as evidently so, thereby setting out to clear his mind of preconceived notions and beliefs.
Edging further into his discourse, he embarks on an interim stage, wherein he temporarily assumes the sceptical position of doubting all things — not as a final destination, but as a means to discover an unshakeable, irrefutable truth.
Establishing Foundations of Knowledge
As Descartes delves deeper, he finds such a truth in the famous philosophical statement, cogito ergo sum or I think, therefore I am. He maintains that even if everything else is doubtful, the fact that he is thinking is undeniable. Hence, establishing the existence of the self beyond a doubt.
In abiding by this rule, Descartes propagates taking on the added measure of never permitting himself to be swayed by imprudent or biased opinions. This, in essence, rids the mind of any pre-existing doubts or uncertainties.
The Existence of God and the Material World
By employing this method, Descartes further deduces the existence of God. He argues that just as the fact of his thinking confirms his existence, the idea he possesses of an infallible God can only arise from a being corresponding to that idea. God’s existence is subsequently used to provide assurance for the reliability of our senses, under the provision that they are employed correctly.
Propelling his argument forward, Descartes posits a clear distinction between the mind and body. He sees the mind as a thinking, non-extended thing and the body as a non-thinking, extended thing, thus setting the basis for mind-body dualism.
Influences on Scientific Method
Influence of Descartes' method is primarily seen in the development of the scientific method. The technique of breaking down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts has been universally adopted within the scientific community.
In conclusion, Discourse on Method sets the stage for modern western philosophy, steering the focus towards doubt and subjective knowledge. The book transcends its time, influencing various disciplines from philosophy to psychology, cognitive science to religion, and is regarded as one of the foundational texts of philosophical method.
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What is Discourse on Method about?
Discourse on Method is a philosophical work by René Descartes, published in 1637. In it, Descartes outlines his philosophical method and introduces his famous concept of "cogito, ergo sum" (I think, therefore I am). The book explores the idea of doubting everything in order to discover true knowledge and lays the foundation for modern Western philosophy.
Who should read Discourse on Method?
- Curious minds seeking a logical and rational approach to understanding the world
- Philosophy enthusiasts interested in the foundations of modern thought
- Those looking to challenge and refine their own thinking processes
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