4 ideas
3299 | In logic identity involves reflexivity (x=x), symmetry (if x=y, then y=x) and transitivity (if x=y and y=z, then x=z) [Baillie] |
Full Idea: In logic identity is an equivalence relation, which involves reflexivity (x=x), symmetry (if x=y, then y=x), and transitivity (if x=y and y=z, then x=z). | |
From: James Baillie (Problems in Personal Identity [1993], Intr p.4) |
13095 | Essence is primitive force, or a law of change [Leibniz] |
Full Idea: The essence of substances consists in the primitive force of action, or the law of the sequence of changes. | |
From: Gottfried Leibniz (Letters to Foucher [1675], 1676) | |
A reaction: [a 1676 note on Foucher's reply] It take these to be the two key distinctive Leibnizian contributions to the sort of metaphysic that is needed by modern science. Nature works with intrinsic essences, which are forces determining action. |
22086 | The most important aspect of a human being is not reason, but passion [Kierkegaard, by Carlisle] |
Full Idea: Kierkegaard insisted that the most important aspect of a human being is not reason, but passion. | |
From: report of Søren Kierkegaard (works [1845]) by Clare Carlisle - Kierkegaard: a guide for the perplexed Intro | |
A reaction: Hume comes to mind for a similar view, but in character Hume was far more rational than Kierkegaard. |
2117 | The connection in events enables us to successfully predict the future, so there must be a constant cause [Leibniz] |
Full Idea: There is a connection among our appearances that provides us the means to predict future appearances with success, and this connection must have a constant cause. | |
From: Gottfried Leibniz (Letters to Foucher [1675]) |