The quote "I think, therefore I am," is attributed to the French philosopher René Descartes. This phrase, originally expressed in Latin as "Cogito, ergo sum," encapsulates Descartes' fundamental element of Western philosophy, particularly in his discourse on the nature of existence and consciousness. It emphasizes the idea that the act of thinking is proof of one's existence and is a cornerstone of his epistemological arguments. This phrase has influenced philosophical thought and discussions on identity and reality throughout history and remains significant in various fields.