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In the span of a short life of 39 years (1623-1662), the French-born Blaise Pascal made his mark as scientist, inventor, philosopher, and theologian. Yet his
Pensées (thoughts), published eight years after his death, continues to make an impact because of its depth and insight. Pensées is really just a compilation of Pascal’s notes, which he intended to be made into a defense of Christianity. However, because of Pascal’s poor health he died before he was able to complete his work.
The Pensées we have today are arranged thematically. These themes range from the wretchedness and greatness of man to the use of reason and the proofs for God. Often Pascal is making observations on human nature, always returning to the theme of the lowly state of man – the paradox of man’s greatness and man’s depravity. At times he paints a dramatic picture of the state of man: