PHI 1104 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Cartesian Coordinate System
19 Apr 2018
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Euclid: plane geometry, based on axioms (fundamental principles): descartes uses axioms to invent universal maths, no matter what knowledge you are seeking, you must begin with fundamental truths of knowledge. Descartes doesn"t like how everyone just assumed things were true because the latest philosopher said so: he wants to doubt everything, and see if it stands up to criticism, radical doubt/scepticism, it is mature, motivated and free. It is discovery of the self, being self-conscious. First meditation: since all knowledge comes from the senses, we must doubt the senses as the source of knowledge. It is i who is doubting, i think, therefore, i am. : this is the first fulcrum (axiom) which allows him to move the world, he can now use this as a base for further knowledge.
