Single Idea 5043

[catalogued under 27. Natural Reality / G. Biology / 2. Life]

Full Idea

It seems to me that the opinion of those who transform or degrade the lower animals into mere machines, although it seems possible, is improbable, and even against the order of things.

Gist of Idea

To regard animals as mere machines may be possible, but seems improbable

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (New System and Explanation of New System [1696], p.116)

Book Reference

Leibniz,Gottfried: 'Philosophical Writings', ed/tr. Parkinson,G.H.R. [Dent 1973], p.116


A Reaction

His target is Descartes. 'Against the order of things' seems to beg the question. What IS the order of things? Only a thorough-going dualist would worry about this question, and that isn't me.