Blaise Pascal And Descartes's Theory Of Knowledge Around The World

He began with: nothing shall be concluded as true unless it was fully proven so (p.8, Descartes). The second rule stated that all problems should be divided up into the smallest possible parts in order to make the analysis simpler. The third rule required Descartes to start simple and gradually increase the difficulty of the topics of his studies as he progressed. Finally, he required himself to regularly reassess his progress to make sure he did not skip over anything important (p.9, Descartes). There are multiple theories of knowledge used around the world. Descartes believed theory to be like a tree, dependant on simple yet strong roots, and a well-built stem with more defined, detailed leaves coming off of it the higher it grew. Following

Before Pascal passed away he desired to publish a novel in defense of the Christian religion. Unfortunately he died before pursuing his desire, only leaving behind his ideas in the form of notes which were then put together and named Pensées. In his ‘Thoughts’ he tries to prove God exists and rid people of their doubts in regards to religion. His main goal was not to persuade nonbelievers to believe in the Christian religion but to remove the doubt of the nonbelievers. In Pascal’s opinion, ‘Man’s nature is entirely natural, wholly animal.” He claims that all men are much like animals. The main difference between man and animal being that man “is a thinking reed” (Pascal) meaning that humans have the ability to think therefore they have the ability to find rational wisdom.

Pascal says “man had never been more than a corrupted being” (Pascal) implying that although people are aware of morals and of the certain things that should not be done, many still remain to be naturally selfish and desire only to please themselves. They tend to ignore their selfish natures either by being indifferent about their actions or by distracting themselves with other things such as work, personal goals, pleasure, etc. The main reason for corruption is the pride mankind has, claims

Pascal claims that one would gain everything and lose nothing if he were to believe in God. Believing in God will guide people to being faithful, humble, trustworthy, appreciative and much more.

Pascal believes humans are afraid that there may be truth to religion. His plan was to rid the doubts people had in regards to religion and to show religion as the good, pure thing it is, by proving that religion preaches true good and purity, and is worthy of respect. Once people learn this, they will wish God’s existence to be true. Pascal claims he does not only wish this for Christianity but for all the religions to come together as one and find an ultimate meaning. The goal is not to determine which God is greater but to show that all Gods offer true