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Single Idea 13163

[filed under theme 6. Mathematics / A. Nature of Mathematics / 2. Geometry ]

Full Idea

An infinite circle is impossible, since any circle is bounded by its circumference.

Gist of Idea

Circles must be bounded, so cannot be infinite

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (Dialogue on human freedom and origin of evil [1695], p.114)

Book Ref

Leibniz,Gottfried: 'Philosophical Essays', ed/tr. Arlew,R /Garber,D [Hackett 1989], p.114


A Reaction

This is interesting if one is asking what the essence of a circle must be. If is tempting to say merely that the radii must be equal, but can they have the length of some vast transfinite number? The circumference must be 2π bigger.


The 4 ideas from 'Dialogue on human freedom and origin of evil'

Sloth's Syllogism: either it can't happen, or it is inevitable without my effort [Leibniz]
Evil is a negation of good, which arises from non-being [Leibniz]
Circles must be bounded, so cannot be infinite [Leibniz]
God only made sin possible because a much greater good can be derived from it [Leibniz]