[The role of the pineal gland in cartesian psychophysiological doctrine]

Abstract

In the present paper, we review the cartesian description of the neuromuscular reflex and the sensorial perception as well as the hypothetical role of the pineal gland on these functions. We analyze the historical bases which support the physiological cartesian doctrine and, from the perspective of our present knowledge, we evaluate the contributions of Descartes to the scientific progress of his time. In the elaborated psychophysiological theory of the french wise, the pineal gland plays a pivotal role, raising the theory that the human soul could be located within this organ.