Single Idea 15955

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 6. Early Matter Theories / g. Atomism]

Full Idea

I still subscribe fully to the corpuscular theory in the explanation of particular phenomena; in this sphere it is of no value to speak of forms or qualities.

Gist of Idea

I think the corpuscular theory, rather than forms or qualities, best explains particular phenomena

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (Letters to Antoine Arnauld [1686], 14.07.1686)

Book Reference

Leibniz,Gottfried: 'Philosophical Writings', ed/tr. Parkinson,G.H.R. [Dent 1973], p.63


A Reaction

I am puzzled by Garber's summary in Idea 12728, and a bit unclear on Leibniz's views on atoms. More needed.

Related Ideas

Idea 12728 Leibniz rejected atoms, because they must be elastic, and hence have parts [Leibniz, by Garber]

Idea 15956 The peripatetics treated forms and real qualities as independent of matter, and non-material [Alexander,P]