I have to write a paper on Descartes' theory of space and time. I am having trouble understanding what authors are referring to when they say "extension" of matter.
Also, any help with finding sources that fully explain Descartes' theories on space and time would be extremely helpful. Thank you!!!
2006-07-05 19:47:56 · 6 answers · asked by imsmart 1 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Philosophy
Rene Descartes is the "father of modern philosophy". If you don't know who he is, don't answer the question!
2006-07-06 03:08:28 · update #1
I would love to know the context in which Descartes used
the term extension of matter. Was he discussing physics,
in which case he was referring to spatial dimensions and
thereby discovered Cartesian coordinate geometry, or was he
discussing metaphysics, in which case he was reiterating
a concept discussed by Aristotle, i.e. the fact that
Existence IS Identity.
2006-07-15 16:04:13 · answer #1 · answered by David Y 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Extension Descartes
2016-12-13 04:26:09 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree--anyone who claims to have been "schooled" in philosophy but doesn't know who Descartes was must be a real winner.
The "extension of matter," as I read it, is just the archaic way in which Descartes spoke of something with a physical presence. It is "extended" in the sense that it has length, width, and height. So my body is an "extension of matter"--it is a physical entity.
It's been a while since I've done a careful study of Descartes, so I don't have any sources to pass along off the top of my head. Sorry about that.
2006-07-06 13:40:19 · answer #3 · answered by tdw 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I never studied philosophy, but I know who Descartes is. He is a loan shark that works 35th St. He told me if I didn't pay what I owe in two days, he would show me an extension of matter: his fist extending into my face.
2006-07-19 19:44:03 · answer #4 · answered by Thomas C 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The energy which makes up all things is continual, its "extension" is that which it moves on to and becomes or becomes a part of in each step of its progression.
Simply..... Your own thoughts on the subject (once you have a clear definition and understanding of it) should be both an easy and fun assignment for you! A "good" library would be a place to start.... or just "Google" it, I'm sure theres many sources on the net.
2006-07-13 06:06:56 · answer #5 · answered by Izen G 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Extroyidinary
2006-07-19 18:16:32 · answer #6 · answered by onelightsleeper 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋