Esotericism in reverse

The article examines how a pro-Enlightenment bias in the study of Western esotericism distorts the understanding of what counts as esoteric knowledge. Using René Descartes as a case study, it argues that the conventional divide between 'critics' and 'religionists' in the field is reversed when viewed from a pre-Enlightenment perspective. The perception of what is generally agreed upon as 'esoteric' in modern studies is shown to be inverted through this historical lens.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Western esotericism appears to be a field most precarious in terms of positioning. This article will highlight the divide between ‘critics’ and ‘religionists’ from a pre-Enlightenment position by discussing René Descartes’ role within esotericism. The study attempts to show that a pro-Enlightenment predilection tends to blur its object of research as to the kinds of knowledges that are under scrutiny. The conclusions drawn from the case of Descartes suggests that the perception of what the ‘esoteric’ in modern studies is generally agreed upon being, is reversed.