Mind and thought in the writings of René Descartes: the anthropological character of Cartesian metaphysics

Relevance. At the present stage of development of human knowledge phenomenon of the mind continues to represent one of the most priority and complex problems, standing in the centre of attention of representatives of an infinite number of fields of knowledge, directions of scientific, philosophical and religious-mystical thought. Scientific study and explanation.In this context, according to the authors, a renewed look at Rene Descartes' ideas about the nature of the mind becomes more relevant. They are of interest both in connection with the threat of losing Descartes' authentic views behind educational and ideological schemes, and in connection with the anthropological intentions of Cartesian metaphysics. The purpose is to conceptualise Rene Descartes' philosophical views on the nature of the mental as an anthropological project. Objectives: to present Descartes' metaphysical project in general terms; to analyze the anthropological element in Descartes' metaphysics; to demonstrate how the anthropological fundamental element for Descartes' constructions is. Methodology. A systematic approach allowed us to examine Descartes' constructions in the unity of their constituent parts; methods of analysis and synthesis enabled us both to isolate the anthropological component from Descartes' overall metaphysical picture, and to trace the specific relationship of this picture as a whole with this component; a hermeneutic approach was employed for the correct analysis and interpretation of Descartes' works and ideas. Results. In this work, Descartes' metaphysical project was presented in general outline, its anthropological element was analyzed, and the meaning-forming significance of anthropological intentions for Cartesian metaphysics was substantiated. Conclusions. The substantial distinction between body and mind occurs due to the inability of mechanistic models to account for the human mind. Descartes' views on the bodily-spiritual nature of man can be characterized as complex: if at the theoretical level we arrive at substantial dualism, then at the practical level we arrive at phenomenal monism. These two positions are accepted by Descartes as dialectically complementing each other and necessary for a complete understanding of the human being.