René Descartes: The Father of Modern Philosophy

René Descartes, often regarded as the father of modern philosophy, introduced foundational ideas that shaped contemporary thought. His notable work, 'Meditations on First Philosophy,' is characterized by the famous assertion 'I think, therefore I am,' establishing the self as the starting point for knowledge. Descartes proposed a systematic method for investigation, emphasizing the need to accept as true only what is self-evident and to break down complex problems into simpler parts for analysis. His philosophical approach marks a departure from earlier traditions by seeking indisputable truths and challenging skepticism, ultimately framing knowledge as resting upon self-awareness and reason.