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The Motif of Machine in Descartes' Metaphysics
Sedlická, Denisa ; Rybák, David (advisor) ; Hauser, Michael (referee)
The master's thesis discusses basic elements of metaphysics by René Descartes. The first part of the thesis focuses on his personal life because certain events shaped and influenced his further actions and ideas. To understand the context of time, the paper presents history knowledge that is relevant to the topic. René Descartes is still known today for his philosophical ideas which helped to develop findings in the field of metaphysics. During his lifetime, that is the first half of the 17th century, natural sciences were gaining in popularity. The thesis follows up with mathematization and geometrization of nature. Descartes' basic premise of knowledge is methodical skepticism which ultimately results in his first personal certainty of philosophy. Next part focuses on the clarification of the dualistic concept of two different substances - rez extensa and res cogitans. The largest and most important part deals with the mechanical conception of the human body. René Descartes believes that the human body is a machine operated by mechanical principles. The thesis introduces a systematic description of the body which logically justifies the primary ideas of this French philosopher. KEYWORDS René Descartes, methaphysics, dualism, mind, body, God, machine, mathematics, geometry
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Reversion to the traditional methods of mental and physical cleansing of man; example of fasting
Brandejská, Tereza ; Kokaisl, Petr (advisor) ; Zychová, Jana (referee)
This bachelor thesis deals with the practise of fasting as one of traditional cleansing methods, nowadays settled in the concept of natural or alternative medicine. The first part explains the very concept of fasting and its principle. Furthermore, it is stated what motivations lead to its taking. This method of purification has deep roots in history, from which it is possible to understand the importance and tradition in different directions of its use. Although the work is not oriented to fasting for religious reasons, this aspect is also outlined because of its strong connection with the general theme of fasting. Thereafter, the text focuses primary on the very fast. The principle of fasting physiology, creating its effects and parallel being a base for understanding the whole method, is explained. Afterwards there is stated possible and recommended duration on the fasting period. The text explains different stages of fasting which one passes through with specific feelings within the respective stage. Finally, the thesis describes principles and recommendations of fasting method, which are important aspects of cleansing. Further the thesis focuses on the negative side effect of fasting and its criticism due to contraindications and opposite opinions of the conventional western medicine. As the last point of this work is indicated the possibility of fasting as a way of changing the lifestyle of the individual.
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