Tuesday, August 5, 2014

Problems for Descartes

Descartes is viewed by many as the founder of modern philosophy. Even though he lived in the 17th century, the conceptual paradigm which he articulated is still  largely the framework in which philosophy of mind is done today. More specifically, his view of the mind known as "Cartesian Dualism" is still prominent, especially among non-naturalistic philosophers.

Despite his influence, many have found problems with his arguments and his positions. Among these dissenters is one of the great thinkers of our time:

Me.

Through this series of posts  entitled "Problems with Descartes", I will attack Cartesian arguments and positions, with the the biggest target being his view on the mind.

Though I am familiar with the more famous objections, there are some I have not heard anyone make. Moreover, there are some arguments that I have heard from other commentators, but in my opinion have not been flushed out to their fullest extend. Hopefully, then, there will be some originality in this series of posts.

Note: If the the brilliance found in these posts strikes a cord and you seek to "borrow" some of it, please know that I am not afraid to use a lawyer.


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