Discourse on Method and Meditations on First Philosophy

René Descartes (1596 - 1650) was a French philosopher, mathematician, physicist, and writer who has been dubbed the "Father of Modern Philosophy", and much subsequent Western philosophy is a response to his writings, which are studied closely to this day. Descartes' influence in mathematics is also apparent; the Cartesian coordinate system-allowing geometric shapes to be expressed in algebraic equations-was named after him. He is credited as the father of analytical geometry. Descartes was also one of the key figures in the Scientific Revolution. <p>In particular, his DISCOURSE ON METHOD and MEDITATIONS ON FIRST PHILOSOPHY continue to be standard texts at most university philosophy departments and essential reading for lovers of philosophy in general.</p>