more from Gottfried Leibniz

Single Idea 19393

[catalogued under 7. Existence / A. Nature of Existence / 6. Criterion for Existence]

Full Idea

We can now show from the inner truths of metaphysics that what is not active is nothing.

Gist of Idea

What is not active is nothing

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (True Method in Philosophy and Theology [1686], p.64)

Book Reference

Leibniz,Gottfried: 'Leibniz Selections', ed/tr. Wiener,Philip P. [Scribners 1951], p.64


A Reaction

This is Leibniz's rebellion against the Cartesian idea that all that matters for natural existence is spatial extension. I agree (tentatively) with Leibniz's vision of nature here. Modern physics reveals a seething turmoil beneath the placid exterior.

Related Idea

Idea 13399 Examples show that ordinary proper names are not rigid designators [Jubien]