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Full Idea
Derivative truths are of two sorts: some are analysed into original truths, others admit of an infinite process of analysis. The former are necessary, the latter are contingent.
Gist of Idea
Necessary truths can be analysed into original truths; contingent truths are infinitely analysable
Source
Gottfried Leibniz (On Freedom [1689], p.108)
Book Ref
Leibniz,Gottfried: 'Philosophical Writings', ed/tr. Parkinson,G.H.R. [Dent 1973], p.108
A Reaction
An intriguing proposal. Hume would presumably see contingent truths as being analysed until you reach 'impressions'. Analysis of necessary truths soon comes to the blinding light of what is obvious, but analysis of contingency never gets there.
6215 | 'Contingent' means that the cause is unperceived, not that there is no cause [Hobbes] |
4299 | Contingency is an illusion, resulting from our inadequate understanding [Spinoza, by Cottingham] |
4824 | We only call things 'contingent' in relation to the imperfection of our knowledge [Spinoza] |
4839 | Reason naturally regards things as necessary, and only imagination considers them contingent [Spinoza] |
5040 | Necessary truths can be analysed into original truths; contingent truths are infinitely analysable [Leibniz] |
4307 | A reason must be given why contingent beings should exist rather than not exist [Leibniz] |
21533 | Contingency arises from tensed verbs changing the propositions to which they refer [Russell] |
17693 | The necessary/contingent distinction may need to recognise possibilities as real [Armstrong] |
14895 | 'Superficial' contingency: false in some world; 'Deep' contingency: no obvious verification [Evans, by Macià/Garcia-Carpentiro] |
19660 | Possible non-being which must be realised is 'precariousness'; absolute contingency might never not-be [Meillassoux] |