Single Idea 19343

[catalogued under 20. Action / C. Motives for Action / 3. Acting on Reason / a. Practical reason]

Full Idea

In practical affairs one always follows the decision rule in accordance with which one ought to seek the maximum or the minimum: namely, one prefers the maximum effect at the minimum cost, so to speak.

Gist of Idea

We follow the practical rule which always seeks maximum effect for minimum cost

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (On the Ultimate Origination of Things [1697], p.150)

Book Reference

Leibniz,Gottfried: 'Philosophical Essays', ed/tr. Arlew,R /Garber,D [Hackett 1989], p.150


A Reaction

Animals probably do that too, and even water sort of obeys the rule when it runs downhill.