Descartes considers the things that one seems to know for certain by reason – for example, mathematical claims, like 2+2=4. When contemplating the ways one could be mistaken about this, he proposes that there might be a powerful demon who can trick one into perceiving 2+2=4 as an undeniable truth when in fact, it is not. Descartes allows this as a real possibility and thinks of all such knowledge as doubtable too.
Why can’t Descartes be certain about mathematical beliefs like the belief that 2+2=4?
Answer by Academic.tip's expert
An answer to this question is provided by one of our experts who specializes in philosophy. Let us know how much you liked it and give it a rating.
Cite this page
Select a citation style:
References
Academic.Tips. (2022) 'Why can’t Descartes be certain about mathematical beliefs like the belief that 2+2=4'. 18 November.
Reference
Academic.Tips. (2022, November 18). Why can’t Descartes be certain about mathematical beliefs like the belief that 2+2=4? https://academic.tips/question/why-cant-descartes-be-certain-about-mathematical-beliefs-like-the-belief-that-224/
References
Academic.Tips. 2022. "Why can’t Descartes be certain about mathematical beliefs like the belief that 2+2=4?" November 18, 2022. https://academic.tips/question/why-cant-descartes-be-certain-about-mathematical-beliefs-like-the-belief-that-224/.
1. Academic.Tips. "Why can’t Descartes be certain about mathematical beliefs like the belief that 2+2=4?" November 18, 2022. https://academic.tips/question/why-cant-descartes-be-certain-about-mathematical-beliefs-like-the-belief-that-224/.
Bibliography
Academic.Tips. "Why can’t Descartes be certain about mathematical beliefs like the belief that 2+2=4?" November 18, 2022. https://academic.tips/question/why-cant-descartes-be-certain-about-mathematical-beliefs-like-the-belief-that-224/.
Work Cited
"Why can’t Descartes be certain about mathematical beliefs like the belief that 2+2=4?" Academic.Tips, 18 Nov. 2022, academic.tips/question/why-cant-descartes-be-certain-about-mathematical-beliefs-like-the-belief-that-224/.
Copy