During the talk, “Descartes: Metaphysics and Reality”, the professor explained the importance of Descartes as a philosopher, given that his entrance in the world of philosophical thought was the catalyst for a radical change in regard to everything that came before and influenced all thought that came after.

Vidal-Quadras discussed the historical and social context of Descartes and placed special emphasis on a series of events that marked those years, such as the scientific revolution and the breakdown of religious unity. These events were what led to the change Descartes introduced in the history of philosophy.

The professor also discussed Descartes’ method, his revolutionary character and the influence he had on the philosophers who came after him. Throughout the lecture, Vidal-Quadras used the philosopher’s texts to illustrate more clearly the change he represented.

More than a hundred secondary-school students attended the lecture, which was given as part of the series of Philosophy Seminars organized by Dr. Magda Bosch for secondary-school students.