Cartesianism and politics of the spirit in Paul Valery

This article explores the role of Descartes in the work of the French writer Paul Valery. Key elements of the Valery's thought are examined through some of his texts on the philosopher, as well as the readings of authors such as Derrida, Benjamin, Lowith and Blumenberg. I will argue the paramount importance of the prose work of this poet for the study of the crisis of the cartesian subject and the evolution of contemporary philosophy.