The Uses of Philosophy

This chapter gives an account of the reported conversation between Pascal and Isaac Le Maître de Sacy, one of the leading presences in the Port-Royal community, in which Pascal explains his views about Montaigne (considered as a representative of scepticism) and Epictetus the Stoic. Pascal’s reduction of all philosophy to a contest between these opposed views is discussed. Both writers have insights of value to the Christian. Montaigne destroys an excessive confidence in human reason, and Epictetus preaches lofty moral ideals and submission to Providence; but Montaigne can encourage moral and religious laziness, and Epictetus pride in human capacities. In different ways, they have failed to take account of the truth proclaimed by Christianity: that humanity is a fallen race.