About This Book
Discourse on Method and Meditations on First Philosophy
ISBN: 9780872204201
This classic philosophical text by René Descartes is a foundational work in the history of philosophy. It's a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the principles of modern philosophy, particularly in the areas of epistemology and metaphysics.
Who Uses It?
Primarily, this book is used by students and instructors in introductory philosophy courses at the college and university levels. It's also a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the basics of philosophical thought, including professionals looking to refresh their knowledge or expand their understanding of philosophical principles.
History and Editions
The 4th edition of Discourse on Method and Meditations on First Philosophy has been updated to bring this version even closer to Descartes's original work. This edition includes Donald Cress's completely revised translation of the Meditations (from the corrected Latin edition) and recent corrections to Discourse on Method. The book maintains the clear and accessible style of a classic teaching edition, making it easier for readers to grasp complex philosophical concepts.
Author and Other Works
René Descartes was a French philosopher and mathematician who is widely regarded as the father of modern Western philosophy. His works include Meditations on First Philosophy, Discourse on Method, and Principles of Philosophy. Donald A. Cress, the translator of this edition, is Professor Emeritus of Philosophy at the University of Wisconsin, Parkside. His translations of Descartes' works are highly regarded for their accuracy and clarity.
Key Features
- Comprehensive Coverage: The book provides a detailed exploration of Descartes' philosophical method and his famous meditations.
- Accessible Translation: Donald Cress's translation ensures that the original Latin text is rendered in clear and accessible English.
- Historical Context: The book offers insights into the historical context in which Descartes wrote, providing a deeper understanding of his philosophical ideas.
- Educational Value: This edition is designed specifically for teaching purposes, making it an excellent resource for both students and educators.
Detailed Information
ISBNs and Formats
- Paperback: ISBN-13: 9780872204201
- Hardcover: ISBN-10: 0872204219 (Note: This is the hardcover edition, not the paperback)[4]
Publication Details
- Publisher: Hackett Publishing Company
- Publication Date: June 15, 1999
- Number of Pages: 128
- Language: English
- Item Weight: 0.462 pounds
- Dimensions: 5.51 inches wide x 8.50 inches long x 0.31 inches tall
Other Editions and Formats
While this specific edition is widely available, it's worth noting that there might be other formats or editions available through different retailers. However, the primary focus should be on this 4th edition for its comprehensive and accessible translation.
Related ISBNs
- Hardcover: ISBN-10: 0872204219 (Note: This is the hardcover edition, not the paperback)[4]
- eBook: Availability may vary depending on the retailer, but it is generally available through major eBook platforms.
This detailed information section provides a quick reference for all the available formats and sources for Discourse on Method and Meditations on First Philosophy, making it easier to find and access the book in the preferred format.






