The incomprehensibility of the infinite in Pascal and Descartes

Abstract

Pascal and Descartes represent two basically different understandings of the infinite. Pascal considers nature to be infinite and does not use the term in connection to God, while Descartes claims the infinite can be the attribute of God only, and nature should be called boundless. However, the epistemological function of the infinite is similar for both authors. For both Pascal and Descartes the infinite is to be comprehended through its obvious presence (evidence), but as it is incommensurable with the finite mind, it remains incomprehensible.