Abstract

Descartes thought about memory in the distinct contexts of method, metaphysics, medicine, mortality, and morals. Keenly aware of the fallibility and instability of natural corporeal memory, he considered various ways to bypass it or avoid relying on it, but also came to see its importance in understanding and dealing with the passions and the union of mind and body. His account of memory influenced Malebranche and associationist traditions, but was subject to sharp attack from critics who saw it as dangerously materialist and chaotic.