Descartes’ Dualism

Was Descartes a Cartesian dualist? In this controversial study, Gordon Baker and Katherine J.Morris argue that, despite a textbook consensus within philosophy, Descartes was not a dualist nor is he guilty of the many philosophical crimes Twentieth Century philosophers have foisted upon him. Contemporary philosophy has made Descartes into everyone’s anti-hero, whose vices range from being unscientific through licensing cruelty to animals to a commitment to a Private Language. Baker and Morris argue that such a role has been manufactured largely to fulfil twentieth century intellectual needs. In lively, engaging prose, Baker and Morris present a radical revision of the legend which has emerged about Descartes’ doctrine and the ways in which Descartes’ work has been interpreted. Descartes emerges with both his historical importance ensured and his philosophical importance regained. The author’s views have already caused heated debate in academic journals; Descartes’ Dualism adds even greater depth and scholarship to those views. The book is essential reading for all historians of philosophy and analytical philosophers; its accessibility will appeal to those outside academic circles with an interest in the Founder of Modern Philosophy’.