Single Idea 21963

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / C. Sources of Mathematics / 4. Mathematical Empiricism / c. Against mathematical empiricism]

Full Idea

Since every basic truth depends on God's omnipotence, I would not dare to say that God cannot make it....that one and two should not be three.

Gist of Idea

It is possible that an omnipotent God might make one and two fail to equal three

Source

René Descartes (Letters to Antoine Arnauld [1645]), quoted by A.W. Moore - The Evolution of Modern Metaphysics 01.3

Book Reference

Moore,A.W.: 'The Evolution of Modern Metaphysics' [CUP 2013], p.33


A Reaction

An unusual view. Most people would say that if Descartes can doubt something that simple, he should also doubt his reasons for believing in God's existence.