ABSTRACT

Descartes is widely regarded to be the father of modern philosophy and his Meditations is among the most important philosophical texts ever written. The Routledge Guidebook to Descartes’ Meditations introduces the major themes in Descartes’ great book and acts as a companion for reading this key work, examining:

  • The context of Descartes’ work and the background to his writing
  • Each separate part of the text in relation to its goals, meanings and impact
  • The reception the book received when first seen by the world
  • The relevance of Descartes’ work to modern philosophy, it’s legacy and influence

With further reading included throughout, this text follows Descartes’ original work closely, making it essential reading for all students of philosophy, and all those wishing to get to grips with this classic work.

part |70 pages

Overview and Synopsis

chapter |37 pages

Descartes' Project

chapter |31 pages

Reading the Meditations

part |218 pages

The Arguments of the Six Meditations

part |57 pages

Beyond the Meditations

chapter |33 pages

The New Science

Physics, Physiology, and the Passions

chapter |22 pages

Legacy and Contribution