Single Idea 13182

[catalogued under 9. Objects / E. Objects over Time / 1. Objects over Time]

Full Idea

Everything accidental or changeable ought to be a modification of something essential or perpetual.

Gist of Idea

Changeable accidents are modifications of unchanging essences

Source

Gottfried Leibniz (Letters to Burcher De Volder [1706], 1704.06.30)

Book Reference

Leibniz,Gottfried: 'Philosophical Essays', ed/tr. Arlew,R /Garber,D [Hackett 1989], p.180


A Reaction

Clear evidence that Leibniz is very much a traditional Aristotelian essentialist, and not as modal logicians tend to characterise him, as a super-essentialist who thinks all properties are essential. They are necessary for identity, but that's different.