Description
Book SynopsisThis book offers a provocative interpretation of the theory of the soul in the writings of the French Cartesian, Nicolas Malebranche (1638-1715). Though recent work on Malebranche''s philosophy of mind has tended to emphasize his account of ideas, Schmaltz focuses rather on his rejection of Descartes'' doctrine that the mind is better known than the body. In particular, he considers and defends Malebranche''s argument that this rejection has a Cartesian basis. Schmaltz reveals that this argument not only provides a fresh perspective on Cartesianism but also is relevant to current debates in the philosophy of mind.
Trade Review"Schmaltz's book...comes as a welcome addition to the Malebranche literature; that he has given us such a well-researched and carefully argued study is even more welcome....this is an excellent book....Schmaltz has given us an excellently researched and carefully analyzed account of an important aspect of the thought of one of the leading philosophers of the seventeenth century."--The Philosophical Review
"A very fine piece of scholarship, and displays real philosophical acumen as well....An original and stimulating discussion....It makes a solid and important contribution to early modern scholarship."--Steven Nadler, University of Wisconsin, Madison
