more from Gottfried Leibniz

Single Idea 5021

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / F. Analytic Philosophy / 1. Nature of Analysis]

Full Idea

Every idea is analysed perfectly only when it is demonstrated a priori that it is possible.

Gist of Idea

An idea is analysed perfectly when it is shown a priori that it is possible

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (Of Organum or Ars Magna of Thinking [1679], p.3)

Book Reference

Leibniz,Gottfried: 'Philosophical Writings', ed/tr. Parkinson,G.H.R. [Dent 1973], p.3


A Reaction

I take it he means metaphysical possibility, rather than natural, or we can't think about pigs flying. He probably has maths in mind. Seeing the possibility of something may well amount to understanding its truth conditions.