Question Everything, Find Your Truth
Meditations On First Philosophy
by René Descartes
Philosophy
TL;DR
This book is a masterclass in radical doubt, teaching you how to systematically dismantle every single belief you hold, from the existence of your own body to the reality of the world around you. Descartes introduces the method of hyperbolic doubt, where you imagine an evil demon is constantly tricking you, forcing you to only accept what is absolutely, undeniably clear and distinct. The ultimate goal is to find foundational truths that can't be shaken, starting with the famous realization: 'I think, therefore I am.' It's less about the answers and more about the rigorous process of skepticism to build certainty from scratch.
Action Items
Pick one 'obvious' truth you believe (e.g., 'the sky is blue') and try to come up with the most ridiculous, yet logically possible, reason why it might not be true. Just for funsies.
When you're feeling overwhelmed or lost, just pause and acknowledge, 'I am currently experiencing this thought/feeling.' That simple act confirms your existence in that moment.
Before making a decision, ask yourself: 'Is this idea or belief absolutely clear and distinct to me, or am I just assuming/hoping it's true?' If it's fuzzy, dig deeper or hold off.
Reflect on an ideal or perfect concept you hold (e.g., perfect friendship, perfect justice). Consider where that idea might originate if not from your own imperfect experience. It's less about religion and more about the source of ideals.
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Key Chapter
Chapter - Meditation I: Of the things which may be brought into doubt
This chapter is where Descartes goes full 'Matrix,' but like, before the Matrix was even a twinkle in a Wachowski's eye. He's basically like, 'Yo, what if everything I think I know is actually just a super elaborate dream, or worse, some evil genius is literally plugging thoughts directly into my brain?' It's a wild ride where he systematically demolishes every single belief he ever held, from the existence of the physical world to basic math. The takeaway? Don't just blindly accept stuff. Question everything, especially what seems obvious. It's about building a strong mental foundation by first clearing out all the shaky assumptions. Think of it as a digital detox for your brain, but instead of social media, you're detoxing from reality itself.
Key Methods and Approaches
The 'Trust No One, Not Even Yourself' Vibe
(AKA: Method of Doubt)
Description:
You gotta doubt literally everything until you find something so undeniably true, it's like a brick wall in a world of Jell-O.
Explanation:
Imagine you're at a sketchy party, and everyone's telling you wild stories. Instead of believing them, you're like, 'Nah, fam, prove it.' Descartes takes that energy and applies it to everything. Your senses? They lie. Your memories? Sketchy. Even math? What if an evil AI is just messing with your calculator? It's about finding that one thing that even the most powerful gaslighter can't make you question.
Examples:
Is this text message real, or did my ex just send it from a fake number to mess with me?
Did I actually see that influencer's perfect life, or was it just a heavily filtered, staged photoshoot?
Is this 'healthy' snack actually healthy, or is it just marketing BS?
Today's Action:
Pick one 'obvious' truth you believe (e.g., 'the sky is blue') and try to come up with the most ridiculous, yet logically possible, reason why it might not be true. Just for funsies.
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