In this paper I discuss Newton's first optical paper. My aim is to examine the type of argument which Newton uses in order to convince his readers of the truth of his theory of colors. My claim is that this argument is an induction by elimination, and that the Newtonian method of justification is a kind of “generative justification”, a term due to T. Nickles. To achieve my aim I analyze in some detail the arguments in Newton's first optical paper, (...) relating the paper with Newton's other writings in optics, and especially his early correspondence in defence of his theory of colors. (shrink)

A completely new translation of the works of Descartes is intended to replace the Haldane and Ross edition, first published in 1911. All material from that edition is translated here, with a number of other texts crucial for understanding Cartesian philosophy.

This paper attempts to characterize the method that Descartes put forward in the Discours de la methode of 1637 and the earlier Regulae ad Directionem Ingenii. It is argued that because if important changes in Descartes ' scientific and epistemological programs, Descartes abandons the method of his earlier years at just the moment that he makes it public in the Discours.