For this essay you will make use of two methods employed in humanities in the form of “argument” and explanation”.
Note: Make sure that you have read Descartes’s Meditations on First Philosophy 1-4 before completing this essay (IN FILES ATTACHED)
Part 1: Argument
Consider the question: “Does the human being have a soul and if so, is the soul immortal (lives on after the death of the body) or not?”
Decide on an answer to the above question and then formulate and write an argument using numbered premises and a conclusion (example below).
For example, you might decide that the human being does indeed have a soul and that the soul is immortal; or you might take the opposite view and argue that the human being doesn’t have a soul and is not immortal; or you could choose something in between.
Your argument must have at least two premises and one conclusion as follows:
Descartes’ proof in Meditation 2
- Premise 1. It seems that I can doubt that I exist.
- Premise 2. But I must exist in order to doubt that I exist.
- Premise 3. This is a contradiction.
- Conclusion. Therefore, I exist.
Part 2: Explanation
Offer an informative explanation about your argument and what has led you to the conclusion that you have come to.
Assessment
- Your final essay (including parts 1-2) should be ~ 500-600 words.
- You answer all parts (1-2) of the assignment as discussed above.
