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Single Idea 13099

[from 'Introduction to a Secret Encyclopaedia' by Gottfried Leibniz, in 1. Philosophy / F. Analytic Philosophy / 2. Analysis by Division ]

Full Idea

An analysis of concepts such that we can reach primitive concepts...does not seem to be within human power.

Gist of Idea

Analysing right down to primitive concepts seems beyond our powers

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (Introduction to a Secret Encyclopaedia [1679], C513-14), quoted by Cover,J/O'Leary-Hawthorne,J - Substance and Individuation in Leibniz

Book Reference

Cover,J/O'Leary-Hawthorne,J: 'Substance and Individuation in Leibniz' [CUP 1999], p.262


A Reaction

Leibniz is nevertheless fully committed, I think, to the existence of such primitives, and is in the grip of the rationalist dream that thoughts can become completely clear, and completely well-founded.