Explaining the basis for Descartes' philosophical doubtings and offering a guide to the puzzling questions he asked about human beings and their place in the world, this book gives an account of Descartes' major contributions to modern science.

Subtitle on cover. "Previously published in the UK and Australia in 1998 under the title 'Descartes for beginners' and in 1999 and 2006 under the current title."--Title-page verso.