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Single Idea 12711

[from 'Discourse on Metaphysics' by Gottfried Leibniz, in 8. Modes of Existence / C. Powers and Dispositions / 1. Powers ]

Full Idea

The force or proximate cause of these changes [of position] is something more real, and there is sufficient basis to attribute it to one body more than to another.

Clarification

A 'proximate' cause is the one closest to the effect

Gist of Idea

The immediate cause of movements is more real [than geometry]

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (Discourse on Metaphysics [1686], §18), quoted by Daniel Garber - Leibniz:Body,Substance,Monad 3

Book Reference

Garber,Daniel: 'Leibniz: Body, Substance, Monad' [OUP 2009], p.119


A Reaction

The force is said to be 'more real' than geometry. Leibniz seems to have embraced fairly physical powers in the period 1678-1698, and then seen them as more and more like spirits.