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Single Idea 12953

[from 'New Essays on Human Understanding' by Gottfried Leibniz, in 9. Objects / A. Existence of Objects / 6. Nihilism about Objects ]

Full Idea

Fluidity is the fundamental condition, and the division into bodies is carried out - there being no obstacle to it - according to our need.

Gist of Idea

Fluidity is basic, and we divide into bodies according to our needs

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (New Essays on Human Understanding [1704], 2.13)

Book Reference

Leibniz,Gottfried: 'New Essays on Human Understanding', ed/tr. Remnant/Bennett [CUP 1996], p.151


A Reaction

Leibniz is referring to what he usually calls 'aggregates', like piles of bricks, which are things lacking a unifying substance. There may be no true substances, in which fluidity is the order of the day.