The search for certainty from "summary" of Discourse on the Method and the Meditations by Rene Descartes
In my pursuit of knowledge, I have embarked on a journey to seek out absolute certainty. This quest for certainty serves as a guiding principle in my philosophical investigations, leading me to question and doubt all that I have previously accepted as true. By subjecting my beliefs to rigorous scrutiny, I aim to uncover a solid foundation upon which to build my understanding of the world. I recognize that many of the ideas and beliefs that have been handed down to me are based on the fallible senses and unreliable human perception. Therefore, I have chosen to adopt a skeptical attitude towards these beliefs, casting doubt on everything that is not indubitably certain. This method of doubt allows me to strip away the layers of falsehood and uncertainty, leaving only that which can be known with absolute clarity. Through this process of doubt and reflection, I have come to the realization that the only thing I can truly be certain of is my own existence as a thinking being. This insight, famously captured in the phrase "Cogito, ergo sum" or "I think, therefore I am," serves as a starting point from which I can begin to rebuild my system of knowledge. Building upon this foundation of self-evident truth, I have sought to establish a secure framework for my beliefs. By employing the method of systematic doubt, I aim to eliminate all possible sources of error and uncertainty, leaving only that which is beyond doubt. This methodical approach allows me to construct a system of knowledge that is grounded in certainty and free from the pitfalls of false belief. In my pursuit of certainty, I have not shied away from challenging conventional wisdom or questioning established authorities. I have sought to rely solely on my own reasoning and intellect, trusting in the power of my mind to lead me to the truth. By embracing uncertainty and doubt, I have been able to forge a path towards genuine knowledge and understanding.- The search for certainty is an ongoing and arduous process, requiring constant vigilance and critical reflection. By remaining steadfast in my commitment to doubt and skepticism, I hope to continue my quest for absolute certainty and uncover the fundamental truths that govern our existence.
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