17th & 18th Century Philosophers: From Pascal to Berkeley
17th & 18th Century Philosophers
Pascal (17th Century)
Influenced by Descartes, but presents an anti-Cartesian perspective.
Maintains the mathematical ideal and trusts human reason, but realizes that rationality is not enough to reach the truth.
Two Types of Spirits:
- Geometric Spirit (Linked to rationality)
- Spirit of Finesse (Related to feelings)
Pascal, a cordialist author, believed that “The heart has reasons that reason does not know.” This means feelings can grasp nuances that reasoning cannot.
Read MoreIntroduction to Philosophy: Key Concepts and History
What is Philosophy?
1. Mythical Tales
Myths are fantastical stories passed down through generations, offering meaning to life and answering profound questions. They feature gods, heroes, and supernatural beings.
2. Social Functions of Myths
Myths reflect the society that creates them, revealing its values and beliefs. Shared mythical stories unite a society.
3. Characteristics of Rational Discourse
Rational discourse prioritizes reason over faith, using structured arguments and evidence-based reasoning.
Read MorePhilosophical Concepts Across History
Comxacion
Plato’s Perspective: Plato, representing an extreme rationalist position, believed in a dualistic reality. He posited the existence of an intelligible world of perfect, eternal Forms (Ideas) and a sensible world of imperfect, changing physical objects. Plato argued that true knowledge comes from understanding the Forms, which are accessible through reason, not the senses.
Aristotle’s Perspective: Aristotle took a more moderate stance. He believed that while the Forms exist, they are not
Read MoreUnderstanding Human Rights: A Comprehensive Guide
What are Human Rights?
Human rights represent fundamental human needs and interests, primarily physical and social, essential for a dignified life. They also acknowledge our inherent social nature and the importance of community for both physical and emotional well-being.
History of Human Rights
Human rights have evolved throughout history, shaped by individuals who fought for their recognition. Key milestones include the French Revolution’s Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen (1789)
Read MoreThe Enlightenment: Key Ideas and Thinkers
2. What are the characteristics of the eighteenth century or the Enlightenment? “The main character of philosophy is the enlightened, free-thinking. His thinking is a universal critical in a frontal attack on any form of religious dogma, superstition, bigotry or oppression intellectual, social or political. They believe in human progress through the development of reason.
Exert a work of “advertisers” reporting through encyclopedias and dictionaries of scientific and philosophical. It is a non-university
Rousseau’s Critique of Enlightenment & Ortega’s Philosophy of Life
Rousseau’s Critique of the Enlightenment
Discourse on the Sciences and the Arts (1750)
In his Discourse on the Sciences and the Arts, Rousseau argued that the advancement of science and arts had corrupted, not purified, human morals. He believed that civilization created artificial needs, enslaving humanity and fostering hypocrisy. Rousseau contended that human vices like ambition, avarice, and idle curiosity fueled the pursuit of knowledge, even in morality.