Discourse on the Method

René Descartes — the founder of a new rationalist philosophy, belongs to the number of outstanding European thinkers. Cartesianism (from Cartesius — the Latinized name of Descartes) has become a kind of object of philosophical cult. To this day, his ideas are not only studied but also professed. The charm of Descartes' thought will be felt by every reader. Attentive to the uninitiated, condescending to bookish wisdom, the philosopher addresses us not as a master but as a humble student, ready to renounce his conclusions upon hearing convincing criticism.

This edition includes three of René Descartes' most important treatises: “Meditations on First Philosophy,” “Discourse on the Method,” and “Search for Truth.” As an appendix, the work of T. Hobbes is presented. The edition includes a large reference apparatus: an introductory article and detailed commentary.