Summary
Summary - POLS2006A (Pols2006)
- Course
- POLS2006A (POLS2006)
- Institution
- University Of The Witwatersrand (wits)
Summary - POLS2006A (Pols2006)
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Week 3: Decartes and the Modern SubjectRecap
Week 1: In our first session, we delved into the enlightenment philosophy
as elucidated by Immanuel Kant. We explored Kant's notion of
enlightenment as the emergence of humanity from its self-imposed
immaturity, emphasizing the importance of individual autonomy and
rationality. We discussed how Kant's ideas laid the groundwork for
modernity by challenging traditional authority and advocating for critical
thinking and intellectual freedom.
Week 2: Building upon our understanding of enlightenment ideals, we
examined the pivotal role of the Scientific Revolution in shaping
modernity. We analyzed how scientific advancements, such as those by
Galileo, Newton, and others, revolutionized humanity's understanding of
the natural world and fostered a spirit of empirical inquiry and skepticism.
We discussed how these scientific developments contributed to the
erosion of traditional beliefs and authority structures, paving the way for
the emergence of modern scientific methodologies and worldviews.
Week 3: This week, we will delve into René Descartes's two meditations,
a cornerstone of modern philosophy. We will explore Descartes's method
of doubt and his quest for certain knowledge, as he famously declared,
"Cogito, ergo sum" ("I think, therefore I am"). Through the meditations,
Descartes grapples with questions of existence, consciousness, and the
nature of the self, laying the groundwork for the modern conception of the
subject as a thinking, autonomous agent. We will critically examine
Descartes's arguments and assess their implications for our
understanding of the modern self and its relationship to knowledge and
reality.
Today’s session:
Week 3: In our exploration of Descartes's two meditations, we will
focus on the foundational aspects of his philosophical inquiry.
(Cartesian doubt)
Meditation 1: Descartes begins his philosophical journey by employing a
method of radical doubt, systematically questioning the reliability of his
senses and the validity of his beliefs. Through this process, he aims to
strip away all preconceived notions and arrive at indubitable truths. We
will discuss Descartes's skepticism and the implications of his
methodological doubt for our understanding of knowledge and certainty.
Interactive Group Work Question: Divide into small groups and
discuss instances in your own lives where you have doubted the reliability
, of your senses or the truthfulness of your beliefs. How did you navigate
through these doubts, and what conclusions did you reach?
Meditation 2: Descartes continues his inquiry by searching for a secure
foundation upon which to rebuild his system of knowledge. He arrives at
the famous conclusion, "Cogito, ergo sum" ("I think, therefore I am"),
asserting the certainty of his own existence as a thinking being. We will
delve into Descartes's reasoning behind this assertion and its implications
for his broader philosophical project.
Interactive Group Work Question: Reflect on Descartes's assertion, "I
think, therefore I am," and discuss whether you agree or disagree with it.
Can you think of any potential objections or alternative interpretations of
this statement? How does this assertion shape our understanding of the
self and consciousness?
Descartes's assertion, "I think, therefore I am," has been both celebrated
and critiqued since its inception.
Agreement:
Many agree with Descartes's assertion as it provides a fundamental
starting point for establishing one's existence. By recognising the act of
thinking, individuals affirm their own consciousness and, consequently,
their existence as a thinking being. This assertion serves as a cornerstone
for modern philosophy and has influenced various disciplines, including
psychology and neuroscience, in understanding the nature of the self and
consciousness.impact of religion***
Disagreement:
However, some critics argue that Descartes's assertion is too simplistic
and fails to account for the complexities of human existence. They argue
that consciousness and existence are not solely dependent on the act of
thinking, as there may be states of being or forms of existence that
transcend cognitive processes. Additionally, objections have been raised
regarding the circular reasoning inherent in Descartes's argument, as the
conclusion presupposes the existence of a thinking "I" to begin with.
Alternative Interpretations:
Alternative interpretations of Descartes's assertion include viewing it as a
starting point for introspection and self-awareness rather than a
conclusive proof of existence. Some philosophers have proposed nuanced
readings of Descartes's statement, emphasizing the role of perception,
embodiment, and social interactions in shaping our understanding of the
self and consciousness.
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