Geulincx

Geulincx principally deals with the question, left in an obscure and unsatisfactory state by Descartes, of the relation between soul and body.

Geulincx carried out to their extreme consequences the irreconcilable elements in the Cartesian metaphysics, and his works have the peculiar value attaching to the vigorous development of a one-sided principle.

All these are regarded by Geulincx as modes of the divine thought and action, and accordingly the end of human endeavour is the end of the divine will or the realization of reason.

Geulincx’s idea of life is “a resigned optimism.”

Whereas Descartes made the union between them a violent collocation, Geulincx practically called it a miracle.