Exploring the Philosophy of Existence: Understanding ‘I Think, Therefore I Am’ and Subjectivity

René Descartes' cogito ergo sum or I think, therefore I am remains one of the most profound and often misunderstood statements in Western philosophy. Many interpret this statement as a literal assertion that if we do not think, we do not exist. This essay aims to clarify these misunderstandings and explore the deeper implications of Descartes' thoughts on existence and subjectivity.

Challenging Misinterpretations of Descartes' Statement

It is astounding how one could take a philosophical statement like Descartes' and transform it into something as simple and potentially misleading as 'if we do not think, we do not exist'. This misinterpretation shows a fundamental misunderstanding of the philosopher's intent. cogito, in cogito ergo sum, does not strictly mean 'think' but rather 'doubt' or 'question.'

In his pursuit of the ultimate foundation of knowledge, Descartes proposed himself to doubt everything. He even questioned his own existence, suggesting that even this self-doubt necessitates his existence. Once he confirmed that something—his own doubt—was present, he could not doubt that he was doubting. This self-doubt is what logically proves his existence:

”Because I doubt, I know I exist.”

This realization is a straightforward statement that has profound implications for our understanding of existence and the nature of our minds.

Descartes' Reasoning and Rules for Clarity

For a clearer understanding of Descartes' thoughts, considering his rules for reasoning is essential. He advocated for breaking down questions to the simplest possible form, asking the simplest questions first, and employing clear and distinct ideas. These guidelines help us navigate the complexities of philosophical thought, much like Descartes did in his famous Discourse on the Method.

Existence and Subjectivity

The eye, for example, recognizes its existence through the perception of objects in its field of vision. Similarly, the subjective element of our consciousness that illuminates all our perceptions is an immaterial spirit. This spirit, like the eye, can only recognize its own existence through reflection—like the reflection of the cosmos.

The quote `I perceive this cosmos and therefore I am!` captures the essence of this understanding. Without a reflection, this subjective element has no conscious awareness, similar to deep sleep, a swoon, a coma, or death. However, it remains very much present in an unmanifest potential state. This reflection, or self-awareness, is what activates the subjectivity and confirms its existence.

Further Insights: Descartes' Own Words

To gain a deeper understanding of these ideas, it is essential to read Descartes himself. His short but profound work, The Discourse on the Method, consists of no more than 60 pages and is fundamental and extremely well written. Whether a reader is a philosopher, a student, or simply interested in understanding existence, this work provides invaluable insights.

By exploring the philosophy of existence through the lens of Descartes, we can better understand the nature of our consciousness and the fundamental truths underlying our existence.

References:

Rene Descartes, Discourse on the Method Edmund Husserl, Phenomenology Alain Badiou, Beauty, the Agon of Theory