Discourse on a new method

A reference to the famous book by René Descartes!

"Discourse on the Method" (French: "Discours de la méthode") is a philosophical treatise written by René Descartes and published in 1637. In this work, Descartes outlines his philosophical method, which is based on the idea of systematic doubt and the use of reason to establish a foundation for knowledge.

The book is divided into six parts, each of which explores a different aspect of Descartes' philosophical method. Here's a brief summary of the main ideas:

Part 1: The author's purpose is to explain the method he has used to arrive at his philosophical conclusions. He begins by describing the uncertainty and confusion of the world, and how he has sought to find a way to establish a firm foundation for knowledge.

Part 2: Descartes describes the method of doubt, which involves questioning everything that can be doubted, in order to arrive at a foundation that is beyond doubt. He argues that this method is necessary because many of our beliefs are based on sensory experience, which can be unreliable.

Part 3: Descartes discusses the importance of the mind-body distinction, arguing that the mind is a non-physical substance that is separate from the body. He also introduces the concept of the "cogito," or the idea that "I think, therefore I am" (in Latin, "Cogito, ergo sum").

Part 4: Descartes discusses the nature of God and the relationship between God and the world. He argues that God is a necessary being, and that the existence of God is necessary to explain the existence of the world.

Part 5: Descartes discusses the nature of the self and the relationship between the self and the world. He argues that the self is a thinking, non-physical substance that is separate from the body.

Part 6: Descartes concludes by summarizing his main points and emphasizing the importance of his method. He argues that his method is a new way of thinking, one that is based on reason and evidence rather than tradition or authority.

Some of the key ideas in "Discourse on the Method" include:

Overall, "Discourse on the Method" is a foundational work of modern philosophy that has had a profound influence on Western thought. It is still widely read and studied today, and its ideas continue to shape our understanding of the nature of knowledge, reality, and the human condition.