Rule I
The aim of our studies should be to direct the mind with a view to
forming true and sound judgements about whatever comes before it.
Whenever men notice some similarity between two things, they are wont to ascribe to each, even in those respects in which the two differ, what they have found to be true of the other. ...
Rule II
We should attend only to those objects of which our minds seem capable
of having certain and indubitable cognition.
Commentary
- The point then of studies is sound judgement, that is good decisions.
- Analogy is a useful and dangerous tool, in that, in those respects where the two things are similar, valid conclusions can be drawn. On the other hand, in those respects in which they differ, false conclusions can be drawn.
- Descartes says we should not trouble our mind regarding things where certainty is not possible.
- Unfortunately, life requires that decisions be made in areas where certainty is not possible.
- Analogy is a useful but dangerous heuristic tool for dealing with decisions in the midst of uncertainty.