Abstract: In the last few decades researches have been developed that has put Montaigne's philosophy back in relation to Descartes'. However, the assertion of such a close relationship can again obscure Montaigne's intrinsic value within philosophy. The aim of this article is to show that a non-reductive vision of Cartesian thought is compatible with a reading of Montaigne that emphasises the originality of his philosophy, and different attitudes towards the real.