Abstract: In this paper, I aim to explain Berkeley’s sudden endorsement of Descartes’ distinction between mind and body in De Motu. This approval of Cartesianism has been seen as disingenuous by several recent commentators. On the contrary, I shall argue that Berkeley’s claims here are consistent with his ‘immaterialism’ and are in accordance with his conception of the distinction between natural science and metaphysics. I will conclude by explaining how to understand Berkeley’s turn not only towards modern, but also towards ancient authorities. Likewise, I will argue that in De Motu, Berkeley begins his quest of redescribing his ‘immaterialist’ philosophy as part of an ancient philosophical tradition, an enterprise that dominates his later works, Alciphron and Siris.
© Walter de Gruyter 2012
