Rene Descartes: Meditations on First Philosophy

Did Descartes argue in a circle? College

Arnauld, within his objections to 'Meditations on First Philosophy', highlights what would come to be considered one of the most fundamental flaws in Cartesian reasoning; namely the evident circularity of reasoning from 'Clear and Distinct perception' to the existence of God, and vice versa. The problem has come to be christened 'The Cartesian Circle' and has lead to an abundance of philosophical discourse, both critical and defensive, on the subject. In this essay, I will seek to sustain the line of argument that Descartes is initially guilty of the charge of circularity levelled against him which he fails to escape within his reply. Though many have since proposed methods of overcoming the circularity issue which in themselves might seem cogent, ultimately they can only be achieved by the alteration of Descartes' original argument or a forced interpretation of the text thus failing to demonstrate that Descartes did not, in fact, argue in a circle.

Before engaging in an analysis of the circularity problem it is perhaps worth briefly summarizing the steps which Descartes' takes to arrive at his conclusion. The meditator having begun his contemplation doubting all that he knows and perceives, he eventually recognises the...

Join Now to View Premium Content

GradeSaver provides access to 2373 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11025 literature essays, 2793 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

Join Now

Already a member? Log in