Descartes, a prominent figure in the history of philosophy, made significant contributions to our understanding of the self. One of his most famous statements, "Cogito, ergo sum" (I think, therefore I am), reflects his foundational belief in the existence of the self as a thinking, conscious being.
Descartes emphasized the distinction between the mind (or soul) and the body, arguing that the mind is a thinking thing that is distinct from the physical world. This dualistic view is known as Cartesian dualism and posits that the mind and body interact through the pineal gland in the brain.
Descartes also viewed the self as a rational agent capable of doubt and reasoning. He believed that individuals have an innate capacity for knowledge and understanding, which is essential to the self.
Overall, Descartes' perspective on the self emphasizes the importance of consciousness, rationality, and self-awareness in defining human existence. His ideas have had a lasting impact on philosophical discussions about the nature of the self and continue to be studied and debated by philosophers and scholars to this day.