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Document Details : Title: Descartes on Human Nature Subtitle: On Misinterpretations of the Cartesian Theory of Human Perfection Author(s): LEE, Jaehoon Journal: Tijdschrift voor Filosofie Volume: 87 Issue: 4 Date: 2025 Pages: 635-653 DOI: 10.2143/TVF.87.4.3295734 Abstract : In this paper, I address several misunderstandings relating to Descartes’ theory of human nature and human perfection. First, I argue that, in Descartes’ philosophy, the finite and limited nature of human beings does not imply imperfection. Second, I show that Descartes does not consider human perfection to be determined either by our position in the order of being or by comparison with other beings. Third, I explain that, for Descartes, human perfection is not something that can be acquired only after recognizing imperfection. I argue that Descartes’ understanding of the human being’s finite and weak nature differs from the one we find in scholastic theologians, who attribute it to the corruption of human nature or to the a priori limitations of human abilities. Indeed, the Cartesian account of human perfection aligns with a Renaissance humanist tradition, which places faith in our natural ability. |
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