The Philosophical Writings of Descartes, Volume II

This edition features reliable, accessible translations; useful editorial materials; and a straightforward presentation of the Objections and Replies, including the objections from Caterus, Arnauld, and Hobbes, accompanied by Descartes’ replies, in their entirety. The letter serving as a reply to Gassendi–in which several of Descartes’ associates present Gassendi’s best arguments and Descartes’ replies–conveys the highlights and important issues of their notoriously extended exchange. Roger Ariew’s illuminating Introduction discusses the Meditations and the intellectual environment surrounding its reception.