PREMIUM-Episode 31: Husserl’s Phenomenology

Written in 1641, 'Meditations on First Philosophy' is a seminal work by René Descartes that outlines his metaphysical system. The book consists of six meditations where Descartes employs methodic doubt to question all beliefs that are not absolutely certain. He aims to establish a secure foundation for knowledge, affirming the existence of the thinking self with the statement 'I think, therefore I am' (Latin: 'Cogito, ergo sum'). Descartes also argues for the existence of God and the distinction between mind and body, using innate ideas and rational reasoning. The work includes critical responses from other thinkers and Descartes's replies, making it a landmark in cooperative philosophical discussion.

Published in 1890, 'The Principles of Psychology' is a two-volume work that lays the groundwork for understanding psychological phenomena through a scientific lens. William James discusses the relationship between mental processes and their underlying physical conditions, introducing key concepts such as the 'stream of consciousness,' the James–Lange theory of emotion, the importance of habit, and the concept of will. The book is based on James's classroom lessons and avoids metaphysical explanations, focusing instead on empirical observations and physiological processes. It has been influential in shaping the field of psychology and continues to be relevant today.

Edmund Husserl's "Cartesian Meditations: An Introduction to Phenomenology" presents a systematic overview of his phenomenological philosophy. The book explores the nature of consciousness, intentionality, and the constitution of the world through a series of meditations. Husserl employs the method of phenomenological reduction to bracket out presuppositions and focus on the pure phenomena of consciousness. He addresses key themes such as the transcendental ego, the life-world, and the problem of other minds. This work is considered a crucial text for understanding Husserl's mature phenomenology and its influence on subsequent philosophical developments.