Cartesian Logic: An Essay on Descartes's Conception of Inference

by Stephen Gaukroger

Overview

This book deals with a previously neglected episode in the history of logic and theories of cognition: the way in which conceptions of inference changed during the 17th century. Gaukroger focuses on the work of Descartes, contrasting his explanation of inference as an instantaneous grasp in accord with the natural light of reason with the Aristotelian view of inference as a discursive process. He offers a new interpretation of Descartes' contribution to the question, revealing it to be a significant advance over humanist and late Scholastic conceptions, and argues that the Cartesian account played a pivotal role in the development of our understanding of the nature of inference.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780198248255
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	10/12/1989
Pages:	156
Product dimensions:	5.69(w) x 8.81(h) x 0.75(d)

About the Author

University of Sydney

Editorial Reviews

"An exhibition of clarity and distinctness in the history, analysis, and exposition of philosophical origins and influences, problems and solutions."—The Review of Metaphysics

"The book is clearly written and reveals an impressive grasp of the history of logic, epistemology, and philosophy of science. No other book treats this material in such detail."—Choice

"This edition shows Essay on a New Logic to be eminently deserving of scholarly attention. In his Preface, Timothy Franz argues convincingly that the outlook of the New Logic is distinctive, with respect to both Maimon's own corpus and this period of German philosophy. For scholars of Kant's philosophy, the work holds special interest. Maimon's assertion of the dependence of general logic on transcendental logic, and his view that logical thinking presupposes an object given from "outside of thinking," pose a fascinating contrast with Kant's conceptions of general and transcendental logic. Franz's introduction and commentary highlight the importance of Maimon's account of transcendental logic, while also casting light on the subtleties of Maimon's treatment of general logic and its intended application in the sciences." — Katherine Dunlop, University of Texas at Austin

"The presentation of the text is a model of precision and clarity, and in his introduction, Franz does an excellent job of setting out the structure of the Logic, and locating it within the larger context of Maimon's philosophy. This is a very impressive work of translation." — Peter Thielke, Pomona College

From the Publisher