How René Descartes found certainty by doubting everything else
In short: In this highlight from Hillsdale College's philosophy course, Dr. Nathan Schlueter explores the foundational logic behind one of history's most famous philosophical conclusions: how we can know our own existence exists.
René Descartes sought to establish a firm foundation for philosophy by questioning the reliability of all sensory experiences. He realized that while he could doubt the reality of the external world, he could not doubt his own existence as a thinking being. This led to his famous conclusion: "I think, therefore I am."
The video provides context on this shift toward self-knowledge as a primary source of truth in Western philosophy.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Descartes: "I Think, Therefore I Am" | Highlights Ep.45
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