Single Idea 4639

[catalogued under 9. Objects / F. Identity among Objects / 7. Indiscernible Objects]

Full Idea

Leibniz's Law ('if identical, must have same properties') defines identity according to the properties possessed by the object itself, but the Identity of Indiscernibles defines identity in terms of how things are conceived or grasped by the mind.

Gist of Idea

Leibniz's Law is about the properties of objects; the Identity of Indiscernibles is about perception of objects

Source

J Baggini / PS Fosl (The Philosopher's Toolkit [2003], §3.16)

Book Reference

Baggini,J and Fosl,P.S.: 'The Philosopher's Toolkit' [Blackwells 2003], p.100


A Reaction

This is the heart of the problem of identity. We realists must fight for Leibniz's Law, and escort the Identity of Indiscernibles to the door.