Why do we feel the need to justify our actions?

In this podcast, philosopher Rebecca Goldstein explores the Cartesian Demands of Justification, a set of criteria for evaluating the strength and validity of knowledge claims proposed by philosopher René Descartes. Goldstein delves into each of the four demands, including the requirement for evident clarity, indubitability, universal validity, and deductive certainty. She provides insights into how these demands provide a strict framework for evaluating the soundness of knowledge claims, while also acknowledging criticisms of their rigidity. With her expertise in philosophy of science and experience teaching at prestigious institutions, Goldstein offers a nuanced and intelligent perspective on Descartes's approach to justification.