Philosophy 322
Descartes Review Questions
1. Someone might think that there is a tension between Meditation I and II, a tension generated by the inconsistent results of the two meditations. (A) First explain what the tension is (5 points), and then (B) explain the arguments that generate the tension. (12 points) (C) Explain (4 points) and (D)evaluate (4 points) what you take to be the best way to resolve the tension.
2. (A) Explain an argument for the claim that Descartes’ Cogito is a priori. (8 points) (B) Explain an argument for the claim that Descartes’ Cogito is a posteriori. (8 points) (C) Decide which argument you think is better and defend your view. (9 points)
3. One objection to Descartes' main argument in Meditation III is that it is guilty of circular reasoning. (A) Carefully explain (don't just state) the argument (7 points) and (B) explain how it is circular and explain what is wrong with circular reasoning (8 points). (C) Explain (5 points) and (D) evaluate (5 points) a response that Descartes could make to this charge.
4. (A) Explain Descartes' ontological argument for God's existence. (10 points) (B) Explain how the example of a triangle helps support the argument. (6 points) (C) Explain and evaluate an objection to Descartes' ontological argument. (9 points)
5. (A) Explain what Descartes means when he says that there is a "real distinction between mind and body" ( 5 points) (B) Explain what you take to be Descartes' best argument for that claim. (10 points) (C) Explain and evaluate an objection to that argument. (10 points)