Single Idea 5017

[catalogued under 16. Persons / D. Continuity of the Self / 7. Self and Thinking]

Full Idea

Because each one of us understands what he thinks, and that in thinking he can shut himself off from every other substance, we may conclude that each of us is really distinct from every other thinking substance and from corporeal substance.

Gist of Idea

In thinking we shut ourselves off from other substances, showing our identity and separateness

Source

René Descartes (Principles of Philosophy [1646], I.60)

Book Reference

Descartes,René: 'Philosophical Essays and Correspondence', ed/tr. Ariew,Roger [Hackett 2000], p.247


A Reaction

This seems to be a novel argument which requires elucidation. I can 'shut myself off from every other substance'? If I shut myself off from thinking about food, does that mean hunger is not part of me? Or convince yourself that you don't have a brother?