The structure and meaning of allegory in «Pensées» of Blaise Pascal: a cognitive context

Abstract

The author considers Pascal's method of allegory to be perhaps the most important technique of philosophical reflection introduced in the «Pensées». Since, according to Pascal, man occupies a middle position in the world, unambiguity in human reasoning could indicate: (a) either man's equality with God; (b) man's lack of life choice and self-determination. That is why the first truths, the first principles of life, the first prophecies and insights can be expressed only in the form of opposites. The means of clashing opposites is allegory. The author traces the apophatic origins of Pascal's concept and analyses the main storylines of allegories in «Pensées», which primarily concern the themes of God, religion, human existence and, thus, human nature and the very first principles of human thought.