Descartes is perhaps most closely associated with the title, “the Father of Modern Philosophy.” Generations of students have been introduced to the study of philosophy through a consideration of his Meditations on First Philosophy. His contributions to natural science is shown by the fact that his physics, as promulgated by the Cartesians, played a central role in the debates after his death over Isaac Newton’s theory of gravitation. Descartes also made major contributions to the field of analytic geometry; we still speak today of “Cartesian coordinates” and the “Cartesian product.”   This second edition of Historical Dictionary of Descartes and Cartesian Philosophy covers the history through a chronology, an introductory essay, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has over 300 cross-referenced entries on various concepts in Descartes’ philosophy, science, and mathematics, as well as biographical entries about the intellectual setting for Descartes’ philosophy and its reception, both with Cartesians and anti-Cartesians. This book is an excellent access point for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about Descartes.

"This second edition, revised by Ariew and four coauthors, provides both beginning and expert researchers with a more complete presentation of essential information on the philosopher's writings, concepts, and findings.  The dictionary offers over 300 cross-referenced entries to provide an excellent foundation for exploring the historical context of Descartes's reception and the concepts essential to understanding the development of the Cartesian perspective.  The biographical information presented on Descartes and his contemporaries is particularly well done, offering readers substantial new background information that will help clarify how he was regarded by other intellectuals of his day.  The bibliography section provides a well-researched selection of sources for pursuing additional topics not covered in this single, concise volume.  Both Cartesian and anti-Cartesian views on a myriad of issues and topics are treated, and this updated reference work will be a valuable addition to all libraries.  Most collection managers will not need to retain the previous edition. Summing Up: Recommended. All academic and general audiences." - CHOICE