‘Meditatio Mortis’

The Cartesian Johannes Clauberg (1622-1665) sometimes refers to philosophy as meditatio mortis, which he understands as the separation of the mind from the body. This chapter outlines the ways that Clauberg amends the Cartesian accounts of the union of mind and body and of the nature of life and death in such a way as to be able to accommodate this view of philosophy. It argues that Clauberg adopts a broader account of life and death than Descartes, and alters the nature and extent of the mind’s and body’s respective causal powers to that end. Finally, the chapter looks at the implications of this conception of philosophy in Clauberg’s broader philosophical and theological context. Not only does philosophical contemplation provide no guidance in the practical sphere – including in theology – but it can be detrimental to our everyday lives.