Single Idea 13191

[catalogued under 9. Objects / D. Essence of Objects / 9. Essence and Properties]

Full Idea

It is the same to look for perfection in an essence and in the properties that flow from an essence.

Gist of Idea

The properties of a thing flow from its essence

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (Letters to Wolff [1715], 1715.05.18)

Book Reference

Leibniz,Gottfried: 'Philosophical Essays', ed/tr. Arlew,R /Garber,D [Hackett 1989], p.233


A Reaction

It is helpful to have Leibniz spelling out his commitment to the traditional view of essence, as that from which the more evident properties flow.

Related Idea

Idea 5057 If you fully understand a subject and its qualities, you see how the second derive from the first [Leibniz]