Single Idea 2112

[catalogued under 10. Modality / D. Knowledge of Modality / 1. A Priori Necessary]

Full Idea

There are two kinds of truths: of reasoning and of facts. Truths of reasoning are necessary and their opposites impossible. Facts are contingent and their opposites possible. A necessary truth is known by analysis.

Gist of Idea

Truths of reason are known by analysis, and are necessary; facts are contingent, and their opposites possible

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (Monadology [1716], §33)

Book Reference

Leibniz,Gottfried: 'Philosophical Writings', ed/tr. Parkinson,G.H.R. [Dent 1973], p.184