HUMA 1160 Study Guide - Final Guide: Attention, Mathematical Object, Cartesian Doubt
Document Summary
Thinkers decided to emulate science and mathematics other than bible, plato/artistotle. Science and math developed knowledge by developing a method for obtaining knowledge. Descartes believe mathematics was the greatest discipline for acquiring knowledge. He reflects on mathematics and how it can solve problems. If you follow methods of math you can transform that mathematical knowledge into other methods. Cartesian = relating to descartes and his ideas. Descartes thought that previous learning would prejudice the mind. In order to prejudice the mind you have to reveal to the reader that the senses are incapable of providing indubitable knowledge. Fundamental enemy of learning is the senses: seeing, touching, hearing, tasting, smelling. If you reply on your senses, it won"t reveal god. In order to appreciate idea of god, the removal of all sensory prejudice has to take place. Notion of reliance: you cannot gain knowledge in a cartesian way if you rely on your senses.