A philosophical framework proposed by René Descartes that posits a fundamental distinction between the mind (thinking substance) and body (extended substance).

Cartesian Dualism

Cartesian dualism, developed by René Descartes in the 17th century, represents one of the most influential and controversial theories in the history of Western Philosophy. This philosophical framework establishes a radical separation between two fundamental substances: the mind (res cogitans) and the body (res extensa).

Core Principles

The Two Substances

Res Cogitans (Thinking Substance)
- Non-physical, non-spatial
- Seat of consciousness and rational thought
- Cannot be divided
- Connected to self-consciousness and personal identity
Res Extensa (Extended Substance)
- Physical, occupies space
- Subject to mechanical laws
- Divisible
- Includes the human body and all material objects

Historical Context

Descartes developed this theory during the Scientific Revolution, when mechanical explanations of nature were gaining prominence. His dualism attempted to reconcile the emerging mechanistic worldview with religious beliefs about the soul and human uniqueness.

The Mind-Body Problem

The most significant challenge to Cartesian dualism is explaining how these two fundamentally different substances interact. This has become known as the mind-body problem, which continues to influence debates in:

Influence and Criticism

Modern Impact

Cartesian dualism has shaped numerous fields:

Medical science's historical tendency to separate mental and physical health
Artificial Intelligence discussions about consciousness and computation
Debates about free will and determinism

Key Criticisms

The interaction problem (how can non-physical mind affect physical body?)
Scientific evidence of mind-brain correlation
Emergence theories offering alternative explanations
Monism as a competing philosophical framework

Legacy

Despite widespread rejection of strict Cartesian dualism in contemporary philosophy, its influence persists in:

Popular intuitions about mind and body
Medical Ethics
Discussions of consciousness and personal identity
Cultural and religious views of the self

The framework continues to provide important historical context for modern debates about consciousness, embodiment, and the nature of human experience.

Contemporary Relevance

While few philosophers today defend traditional Cartesian dualism, its questions and problems remain relevant to:

The enduring influence of Cartesian dualism demonstrates how fundamental philosophical frameworks can shape centuries of thought, even after their original formulations have been largely rejected.