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About this quote

What does it mean?
Descartes proposed a specific physical location for the soul, though this is now scientifically outdated.
In plain terms
He thought the soul was in the pituitary gland.
What can you take from it?
This view is historically interesting but scientifically incorrect.

Where it applies

  • history of science
  • philosophy classes
  • neurology

Putting it to work

  • study historical theories
  • contrast with modern science

Questions to consider

  • Why did Descartes choose this specific gland?
  • How has our view of the mind changed?

Another view

Modern neuroscience has debunked the idea of a singular seat of the soul.

More from Rene Descartes

  1. Everything is self-evident.

    Permalink to quote #18

  2. Except our own thoughts, there is nothing absolutely in our power.

    Permalink to quote #20

  3. larvatus Prodeo

    Permalink to quote #17

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