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In Our Time

Cogito Ergo Sum

Apr 28, 2011
Melvyn Bragg and guests explore Descartes' famous 'Cogito ergo sum'. They discuss his methodical doubt, mind-body separation, and the enduring impact of his philosophy. The podcast delves into Descartes' education, dreams, and pursuit of foundational knowledge through skepticism and reasoning.
42:18

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Quick takeaways

  • Descartes' 'cogito ergo sum' establishes self-existence through thinking, serving as a foundational concept in philosophy.
  • Descartes' methodical doubt challenges sensory reliability, leading to the distinction between mind-body dualism and exploration of consciousness.

Deep dives

Descartes' Cogito Argument

Descartes' famous phrase 'cogito ergo sum' (I think, therefore I am) serves as a foundational concept in modern philosophy. Originating from Descartes' work in 1637, the cogito argument represents the first principle of philosophy according to Descartes. It signifies the certainty of self-existence through the act of thinking, establishing a starting point for exploring the nature of knowledge and reality.

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