How did the greatest contribution of Rene Descartes affect the 18th and 19th-century philosophy?
Thank you for using the Jiskha Homework Help Forum. Here are some sites for you to peruse. When you have decided for yourself the most important contribution, post it and we will be glad to critique it:
1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ren%C3%A9_Descartes
2. http://www.iep.utm.edu/d/descarte.htm
These sites will also prove useful.
http://www.rep.routledge.com/article/DA026
http://www.bartleby.com/65/de/Descarte.html
To determine the greatest contribution of René Descartes and its impact on 18th and 19th-century philosophy, you can start by researching various sources to gather information about Descartes and his ideas. The provided links, such as Wikipedia, the Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy, Routledge and Bartleby, can be useful for this purpose.
When browsing these sources, pay attention to Descartes' major philosophical concepts and theories. Some key ideas associated with Descartes include his method of doubt, his dualistic view of mind and body, and his famous declaration, "Cogito, ergo sum" or "I think, therefore I am." These concepts are often considered the cornerstones of Descartes' philosophy.
After understanding Descartes' ideas, you can assess their impact on 18th and 19th-century philosophy. Look for how other philosophers responded to Descartes' ideas, incorporated them into their own theories, or criticized them. Consider the development of philosophical schools of thought during this time, such as rationalism, empiricism, and idealism, and examine how Descartes influenced these movements.
It may also be helpful to investigate the reception of Descartes' works by philosophers who came after him, including figures like Immanuel Kant, George Berkeley, and Arthur Schopenhauer. Look for specific references to Descartes' ideas or debates sparked by his philosophy within the philosophical works of these thinkers.
By critically analyzing and synthesizing information from various sources, you can form a well-supported argument about the greatest contribution of Descartes and its impact on 18th and 19th-century philosophy. Remember to substantiate your claims with evidence from reputable scholarly sources.