DESCARTES' ‘PROVISIONAL MORALITY’

Discourse on Method part 3 offers une morale par provision, usually translated as ‘a provisional moral code’. Occasionally it has been questioned that this code is temporary and restricted to those engaged in pure inquiry. We argue that Descartes intends the moral code to be his final ethical position universally applicable. Since the moral code is ‘derived from’ the rules of method, it should have their permanence, holding for the time pure inquiry commences and when it completes the sciences. Moreover, the four moral maxims replace the classical cardinal virtues. Thus they are meant to govern the lives of all persons.     

Life's Challenges: Curse or Opportunity? Counseling Families of Persons With Disabilities

Disability is viewed as an opportunity for reframing physical and emotional difficulties. In accepting responsibility, clients recognize that, even in the most difficult of circumstances, they have the ability to choose how they wil respond. Strategies for facilitating personal healing and empowerment are explored, including self-forgiveness and positive self-talk.