What Is Descartes Idea Of The Human Mind

Descartes begins by affirming that his idea of the human mind is that of a thinking thing. This thinking thing is not extended in length, breadth or depth. This being said Descartes reveals that sometimes he doubts or feels as if he is a thing that is incomplete and dependent. During these moments a clear, distinct idea of a being comes to mind, one that is independent and complete. Descartes identifies this idea to be God. Descartes believes that because he has the capacity to think of this incredible being, and the fact that he himself exists must mean that God must exist. Descartes states that his existence depends entirely upon God at each and every moment. From here Descartes attempts to find the nature of the true God, the one who holds all the treasures of science and wisdom to the knowledge of other things. …show more content…
Both intellect and will must be present. Through intellect alone ideas are merely perceived to which judgment can be made. While through free will is the chief basis for an understanding that one bears a certain image and likeness of God. Descartes struggles to find why he makes errors even though a perfect being, his creator, has given him the tools to be perfect. Descartes brings into the mix the idea of corporeal nature. He is in doubt as to whether the thinking nature which is in him, or rather which he is, is something different from his corporeal nature, or whether both natures are one and the same thing.