Descartes’ Concept of a Thinking Thing
Rene Descartes claims that humans are thinking things, referring to their skills and abilities to think consciously and form unique thoughts. People judge by manifesting their true self, their immediately available, unequivocal, and inherent element of existence. Consequently, a thinking thing is an individual capable of deep reflection, thoughtfulness, and creativity, with the capacity to doubt and make clear conclusions. Humans are sentient beings, questioning the physical world but not the act of thinking (Ashcroft, 2022).
The Cogito Argument: “I Think, Therefore I Am”
Thus, the cogito argument means that thinking is the primary criterion of existence. According to the philosopher, thinking is a fundamental characteristic of human beings, without which their presence is impossible (Dominte, 2020). It makes man the master of nature since man is a unique being combining two substances: thinking and physical. Generally, the cogito ergo sum argument is essential, allowing Descartes to find unchanging, indisputable truth to build the entire philosophical foundation and make existentialist statements. It establishes the self as an active, independent being capable of thought and existence.
Are We Only Thinking Things?
I agree with Rene Descartes, and various thoughts, ideas, and views separate a person from other subjects. Yes, we think things, our reflections determine how we feel, and we accept what we believe as truth. I think thought is limitless, multifaceted, and immense, unlike the physical shell and the reality surrounding us.
Nevertheless, in my opinion, we are more than thinking beings. We not only think, but we also feel, contemplate, perceive, and interact with the environment and society. We are perfect beings in many ways, and we are additionally connected to higher powers, not just material and biological. However, the question of what we are remains open and subject to individual interpretation. Philosophers, scientists, and ordinary people may present different perspectives.
References
Ashcroft, R. (2022). What does “I think, therefore I am” really mean? The Collector. Web.
Dominte, C. (2020). Re-thinking character in the theater of the absurd. Cambridge Scholars Publishing.