PHIL 100 Chapter Notes - Chapter 13: Thought Experiment, Ex Nihilo, Firm Foundation
Document Summary
Light of nature: descartes" term for reason, in the light of which things can appear so clear and distinct that they cannot possibly be doubted. The result of descartes" methodical doubt is that____. He finds something that can indicate a criterion for knowledge. Rules of method: never accept truth if no evident knowledge. Clear and distinct: divide each difficulty and examine its parts to better resolve them. Analysis: direct thoughts in an orderly manner; beginning with simple moving to complex, make comprehensive reviews. Insight: perception of simple natures so clear and distinct that there can be no doubt. Deduction: deriving certainty about complex conclusions from simpler premises via logic. First philosophy: metaphysics; search for the first principles of things, their basis and origin. Evil demon: part of a thought experiment to doubt even things that seemed most certain. (ex. Provide a firm foundation for knowledge. Purpose: establish foundation for knowing world through proving the existence of god and the soul.
