Single Idea 13185

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / A. Speculations on Nature / 7. Later Matter Theories / c. Matter as extension]

Full Idea

Even if we grant impenetrability is added to extension, nothing complete is brought about, nothing from which a reason for motion, and especially the laws of motion, can be given.

Gist of Idea

Even if extension is impenetrable, this still offers no explanation for motion and its laws

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (Letters to Burcher De Volder [1706], 1704 or 1705)

Book Reference

Leibniz,Gottfried: 'Philosophical Essays', ed/tr. Arlew,R /Garber,D [Hackett 1989], p.183


A Reaction

When it comes to the reasons for the so-called 'laws of nature', scientists give up, because they've only got mathematical descriptions, whereas the philosopher won't give up (even though, embarassingly, the evidence is running a bit thin).