Descartes says, "And although the right conception of this truth has cost me much close thinking, nevertheless at present I feel not only as assured of it as of what I deem most certain, but I remark further that the certitude of all other truths is so absolutely dependent on it that without this knowledge it is impossible ever to know anything perfectly." What is Descartes referring to in the italicized phrase?
A) The belief in the power of thought.
B) The knowledge that God exists.
C) The truths of mathematics.
D) The objects of sense perceptions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Descartes is referring to the knowledge that God exists, which he believes is the foundation for all other knowledge and certainty. Without the knowledge of God's existence, Descartes argues that we cannot be certain of anything else, including the truths of mathematics or the objects of sense perceptions.

Descartes Says, "And Although the Right Conception of This Truth