Book description
Philosophy for busy people. Read a succinct account of the philosophy
of Descartes in just one hour.
Descartes was the first modern philosopher. His scepticism led him to
doubt all certainties, until finally he arrived at his famous maxim 'I
think therefore I am'. He would also apply his rationalism with great
effect in science and mathematics, conceiving a scheme for scientific
method and inventing Cartesian co-ordinates in geometry.
Descartes: Philosophy in an Hour a concise, expert account of Descartes'
life and philosophical ideas - entertainingly written and easy to
understand. Also included are selections from Descartes' work, suggested
further reading, and chronologies that place Descartes in the context of
the broader scheme of philosophy. 'Well-written, clear and informed,
they have a breezy wit about them . . .I find them hard to stop
reading.' New York Times
'Witty, illuminating, and blessedly concise' Wall Street Journal
'Each of these little books is witty and dramatic and creates a sense of
time, place, and character . . . I cannot think of a better way to
introduce oneself and one's friends to Western civilization.' Boston Globe
'A godsend in this era of the short attention span.' New York Times
Paul Strathern has lectured in philosophy and mathematics and now lives
and writes in London. A Somerset Maugham prize winner, he is also the
author of books on history and travel as well as five novels. His
articles have appeared in a great many publications including the
Observer (London) and the Irish Times. His own degree in philosophy was
earned at Trinity College, Dublin.
