Rene Descartes (1596 - 1650) was a French philosopher, mathematician, physicist, and writer who has been dubbed the "Father of Modern Philosophy", and much subsequent Western philosophy is a response to his writings, which are studied closely to this day. Descartes' influence in mathematics is also apparent; the Cartesian coordinate system-allowing geometric shapes to be expressed in algebraic equations-was named after him. He is credited as the father of analytical geometry. Descartes was also one of the key figures in the Scientific Revolution.

In particular, his DISCOURSE ON METHOD and MEDITATIONS ON FIRST PHILOSOPHY continue to be standard texts at most university philosophy departments and essential reading for lovers of philosophy in general.