Descartesists

Descartesists refers to individuals who adhere to or are heavily influenced by the philosophical ideas of René Descartes. Descartes, a 17th-century French philosopher, mathematician, and scientist, is often called the "father of modern philosophy." His work laid the groundwork for rationalism, a philosophical movement that emphasizes reason as the primary source of knowledge.

Key tenets associated with Descartesism include methodological skepticism, where one doubts all beliefs until they can be logically proven. This process leads to his famous assertion, "Cogito, ergo sum" ("I think, therefore I am"), which he considered an indubitable truth and a foundation for knowledge. Descartesists also often embrace dualism, the idea that mind and body are distinct substances. The mind (res cogitans) is a thinking, non-extended entity, while the body (res extensa) is a physical, extended entity.

The influence of Descartesists extends to epistemology, metaphysics, and the philosophy of mind. While Descartes' specific views have been debated and critiqued throughout philosophical history, the Cartesian method of clear and distinct ideas and the foundational importance of the thinking subject continue to resonate in various philosophical discussions. Modern interpretations and applications of Cartesian thought can be found in fields ranging from cognitive science to artificial intelligence.