Descrate's Assumptions

Descarte argues that the only thing we can be sure are real are our thoughts. This led our class to begin a discussion on the legitimacy of our own senses to observe our reality correctly. According to Descarte these observations are the only thing we can be sure are true. However, there are many instances where people experience sensory experiences or even incorrect thoughts. How would Descarte explain such happenings?

Through out recorded history many people have developed incorrect assumptions about the world based on false thoughts and interpretations of their sensory observations. Yet, according to Descarte these things were the only things such people could be 100% sure were real.

This leads me to question what reality is. Could reality simply be each person's own interpretation of the world around us? Can reality be different for every person? This seems to contradict the general connotation of reality. Reality is supposed to be free from personal interpretations and the same for everyone. If this is the case, then is our hold on reality as secure as we think it is? Do we even really know what reality is?

While in class I also wondered if people have the ability to realize when their sensory observations are false? Can reason and/or logic allow people to recognize this flaw?

I think Descarte's assumption that the only thing we can be 100% sure exists is too bold. Yet, when I really sit down and contemplate it, I can't think of any more logical assumptions. It is very scary to think that we may be living in an illusion. Maybe this is why it seems so implausible that everything around us may not exist. But it seems impossible to prove that anything exists but your own personal thoughts.