... ; however, Descartes makes certain that actions that are inane, for example, are not included. In this passage, Descartes" idea of "external actions" is not simply the ability to eat, talk or walk (explained further later) but rather a more complex action that incurs more complex thoughts: the capacity for linguistic activity. However, Descartes does not simply define linguistic activity as talking ... but as " words, or other signs that are relevant to particular topics without expressing any passion" ("Letter to the Marquess of Newcastle," CR, p. 36). In Descartes" Discourse on the Met...

• Word Count: 1300
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: Undergraduate