GWSM Marybel Elfar Short Response Paper (2)
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
New York University *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
110
Subject
Philosophy
Date
Feb 20, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
4
Uploaded by ProfessorFangGerbil28
Marybel Elfar Global Works and Society: Modernity
Professor Ngomo
1. René Descartes
Is Descartes “provisional code of morals” outlined in Part III of
his Discourse on Method consistent with the first “rule of method”
that advises to “never accept anything as true that (he) did not
plainly know to be such; that is to say, carefully to avoid hasty
judgment and prejudice; and to include nothing more in (his)
judgments than what presented itself to (his) mind so clearly and so
distinctly that (he) has no occasion to call it in doubt”? The Consistency of Descartes' Code of Morals and Rule of Method
Examining the profound relationship between Descartes' different texts, one must address
a central query: Is Descartes' "provisional code of morals" consistent with his first "rule of method?” This argument asserts that Descartes' code of morals does align with his first rule of method. This is due to the following shared points: shared emphasis on cautious judgment, commitment to self-restraint and the pursuit of certainty. These notions provide logical reason to support that the two texts are consistent, and the following investigation will show how Descartes' dedication to ethical restraint and the avoidance of premature conclusions reflects the strict epistemological approach of his method. The method’s
emphasis on avoiding prejudice also connects with the call to follow established laws and practices. Furthermore, the underlying compatibility between Descartes' two texts is shown by the common idea of overcoming wants and seeking certainty.
Both Descartes' method and moral code place an emphasis on exercising caution while making decisions. The Rule of Method
calls for prudence when accepting convictions, and the moral code encourages adherence to social norms and moderation in opinions. This moral framework, which is presented in Part III of his Discourse on Method,
proposes that one should uphold the religion they were reared in, observe the laws and customs of their nation, and
conform to moderate beliefs that are generally accepted in practice by sensible people with whom they coexist. This strategy supports the
Method
's advice to be cautious while embracing beliefs, as Descartes himself states, "For, beginning from then on to count my own opinions as nothing because I wished to submit them all to examination, I was assured that I could not do better than to follow those of the most judicious." (Descartes 13) According to this quotation, people should adhere to social norms and use prudence when evaluating their opinions, harmonizing moral conduct with the philosophical perspective. This strategy supports the method's advice to be cautious while embracing beliefs. It indicates that people shouldn't stray from accepted norms and instead use caution while assessing their beliefs, aligning moral behavior with philosophical approach. Additionally, both texts place a high value on having precise knowledge that may be used to make ethical and philosophical decisions. This agreement
highlights the congruence of Descartes' ethical and epistemological views, emphasizing their mutual dedication to a thorough and logical approach.
Descartes' moral code also mirrors his commitment to self-restraint and the pursuit of certainty. Within this code, he encourages individuals to exercise mastery over themselves and advocates for a disciplined way of living. This emphasis on self-control aligns seamlessly with the central principle of Descartes' method, which urges practitioners to refrain from making impulsive decisions and hasty judgments. In essence, both the moral code and the method underscore the importance of taking thoughtful and deliberate actions rather than succumbing to fleeting desires. Furthermore, in his Discourse on Method
, Descartes formulated a set of tentative
moral principles, including three or four maxims that vividly illustrate his dedication to discipline and sound judgment. He articulates, "My second maxim was to exhibit unwavering firmness and resolve in my actions, even when pursuing the most dubious beliefs, once I had committed to them, with a constancy no less steadfast than if they had been firmly established" (Descartes 14). This unwavering commitment to resolute action and the pursuit of even uncertain
beliefs harmonizes with his method's primary tenet, which discourages impulsive decision-
making. Additionally, Descartes places a high premium on the pursuit of certainty in both the moral and philosophical domains. His moral code emphasizes the value of upholding moderate viewpoints, promoting balance and discretion. As he puts it, "For, from that point onward, I considered my own opinions as inconsequential, as I aimed to subject them all to rigorous examination, and I was convinced that I could do no better than to align with the views of the most judicious" (Descartes 13). In parallel, his methodology seeks to acquire precise and distinct information, serving as the foundation for achieving certainty in the realm of philosophy. Descartes underscores the unity and coherence of his ethical and epistemological ideas by equating the pursuit of certainty in both areas.
It is important to recognize that while the connection between Descartes' "provisional code of morals" and his first "rule of method" appear strong, some skeptics may have objections. Descartes' emphasis on adhering to cultural norms and customs in his moral code could draw criticism for being in conflict with his method, which encourages radical questioning and the rejection of preconceived notions. Those who disagree with Descartes may claim that adhering to
existing practices can result in intellectual complacency and obstruct the kind of critical thinking he promotes. A closer look, though, demonstrates that Descartes' advice to follow societal norms does not equate to mindless compliance. Instead, it encourages people to make informed moral decisions as they acknowledge the significance of ethical and social settings while continuing to pursue knowledge that is distinct and clear in order to achieve certainty. Descartes' connection of
ethics and epistemology in this way encourages a sophisticated strategy that takes into account the knowledge of tradition without restricting independent inquiry.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
Descartes' moral code and method are clearly intertwined when the reasons put forth are evaluated. Their mutual emphasis on caution, avoiding reaching to conclusions, and adhering to accepted conventions and practices, as well as practicing restraint. serves as a clear indication of their alignment. Ultimately, there is a a wealth of evidence that lends credence to the claim that Descartes' "provisional code of morals" is consistent with his first "rule of method." In both ethical and epistemological endeavors, the philosophical framework he offers emphasizes the significance of cautious judgment, moderation, and the search of clear and definite knowledge. Because of the harmony between Descartes' ethical and philosophical concepts, one should accept the argument.
Works Cited
René Descartes, and Ian W F Maclean. A Discourse on the Method of Correctly Conducting One’s Reason and Seeking Truth in the Sciences
. Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2008.