Descartes’ Philosophical Method, Doubt, and Proofs of God
The Rule of the Method
The aim of Descartes’ philosophical project coincides with the definition of good sense or reason: the ability to judge and distinguish the true from the false. But it is not enough to possess reason; the main thing is to apply it well. What is needed is a way or method to serve as a guide for the proper use of reason.
Influences on the Cartesian Method
A) Logic and mathematics provide an influence on the Cartesian method. Logic highlights deductive power, while criticizing its
Read MorePsychological Strategies, Morality Stages, and Cultural Identity
Insights from Broadcasts 121–125
Carl Jung on Gender Potential (Broadcast 121)
What is critical for empowering gender potential?
- For Men: Men must succeed in the traditional role (always trying to win), which often leads them to get out of touch with themselves. Having a female friend allows men to be vulnerable.
- For Women: The traditional role is to be warm and nurturing. Women are often givers, which is why they may resist accepting love or things from others. They are traditionally more interested
Foundational Concepts in Political and Social Theory
Max Weber: Science, Politics, and Modernity
“Science as a Vocation”
- Institutionalization of sciences.
- Progress of knowledge leads to specialization.
“The Disenchantment of the World”
This concept posits the logical premise that there are no mysterious forces; all things are explicable and subject to technical mastery. It results in the dissolution of meaning, where values are no longer central to the experience of society. The modern predicament involves seeking modes of retreat or re-enchantment.
“Politics
Read MoreAchieving the Good Life: Aristotle’s Virtue Versus Csikszentmihalyi’s Flow
Lawson Dunford
Professor DeMarco
The Good Life
November 29, 2019
What Constitutes the Good Life?
It is in the best interest of all people to pursue ‘the good life,’ but what exactly does this life consist of? Philosophers have been debating this topic for hundreds of years, and a plethora of perspectives have appeared. While examining the works of author Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi in Flow, and Aristotle in Nicomachean Ethics, these differing views can be observed. In each work, what constitutes ‘the
Read MoreUnderstanding Personal Values, Social Norms, and Morality
Understanding Personal Values
We are all constantly making decisions. The question is: why do we choose what we choose? We act as we do because we believe one option is preferable to the alternative, more convenient, more valuable, or simply because it feels good.
For example, if a person decides to attend class because they think it is better than being distracted, or if someone is sincere, it is because it seems that truth is more valuable than a lie. Everyone, consciously or unconsciously, appreciates
Read MoreThe Philosophical Roots and Ideology of Fascism and National Socialism
Ideological Foundations of Fascism and National Socialism
Fascism and the Italian Labor Charter (Mussolini)
Mussolini wrote the principle of work for the national good into the Italian Labor Charter, which he promulgated in 1927. He asserted that the ends of the Italian nation are “superior to those of the separate individuals which comprise it.”
- “Work in all its forms… is a social duty.”
- Production “has a single object, namely, the well-being of individuals and the development of national