Cartesian

[ kahr-tee-zhuhn ]

adjective

1. of or relating to Descartes, his mathematical methods, or his philosophy, especially with regard to its emphasis on logical analysis and its mechanistic interpretation of physical nature.

noun

1. a follower of Cartesian thought.

Cartesian

/ kɑːˈtiːzɪən; -ʒjən /

adjective

1. of or relating to the works of René Descartes
2. of, relating to, or used in Descartes' mathematical system

   Cartesian coordinates

3. of, relating to, or derived from Descartes' philosophy, esp his contentions that personal identity consists in the continued existence of a unique mind and that the mind and body are connected causally See also dualism

noun

1. a follower of the teachings and methods of Descartes

Derived Forms

• Carˈtesianˌism, noun

Other Words From

• Cartesian·ism noun
• post-Car·tesian adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of Cartesian¹

1650–60; < New Latin Cartesiānus, equivalent to Cartesi ( us ) (Latinization of Descartes ) + -ānus -an

Example Sentences

In Locke's philosophy, the 'ideas,' legitimate or illegitimate descendants of the Cartesian theories, play a most prominent part.

From Project Gutenberg

The Cartesian philosophy is founded on two great principles, the one metaphysical, the other physical.

From Project Gutenberg

The stamp of Cartesian clearness is upon it, but without the logic, the precision, the thoroughness of French thought.

From Project Gutenberg

There can be little doubt that Newton himself aimed his rule at the Cartesian hypothesis of Vortices.

From Project Gutenberg

The form of it originated by Descartes, and thence known as Cartesian, will alone be considered in much detail.

From Project Gutenberg