In Meditations on First Philosophy, Rene" Descartes discusses the existence of external objects, primarily in the First Meditation. Descartes doubts the existence of external objects based upon the idea that an "evil genius" exists instead of an ideally good God. This "evil genius" strives at deceiving Descartes. Descartes now assumes that all external objects- "the heavens, the air, the earth, colors, shapes, sounds"- ... "being than which none greater can be thought". The meaning of the argument is that the concept of God is the greatest being who can be thought, and therefore He must exist...

• Word Count: 701
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School

... Locke and Rousseau. John Locke (1632-1704) is a predominant figure in the history of political philosophy. His Two Treatise On Civil Government (1689) showcases his political philosophy, with which he examines with great attention the subject of the state of nature. According to Locke's definition of the state of nature; man in all his forms is bound to "preserve peace, preserve mankind and refrain from hurt to ... one another". Locke refers to the state of nature as the foundation for his social contract, as ... it is simply an idea explaining the purpose of a civil government. Locke ...

• Word Count: 1226
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: Undergraduate