Leibniz: A Guide for the Perplexed / Edition 1

by Franklin Perkins

Overview

Continuum's Guides for the Perplexed are clear, concise and accessible introductions to thinkers, writers and subjects that students and readers can find especially challenging. Concentrating specifically on what it is that makes the subject difficult to fathom, these books explain and explore key themes and ideas, guiding the reader towards a thorough understanding of demanding material. Gottfried Leibniz is one of the most influential and important European philosophers of the early modern period. Although he wrote no single comprehensive explanation of his philosophy, his contributions to areas of philosophical thought range from mathematics to cultural exchange. However, his ideas often seem strange and abstract and his tendency to harmonize different views can be hugely puzzling for the reader. Students of Lebniz's work and thought regularly face very particular intellectual challenges. Leibniz: A Guide for the Perplexed is a clear and thorough account of Lebniz's philosophy, providing an ideal guide to the important and complex thought of this key philosopher. The book covers the whole range of Leibniz's thought, offering detailed examination of the key areas of his ideas, including the intersections between his metaphysics, epistemology, ethical and political thought and his famous claim that reality consists of monads (unities). Geared towards the specific requirements of students who need to reach a sound understanding of Leibniz's thought, the book provides a cogent and reliable survey of his work and ideas. This is the ideal companion to the study of this most influential and challenging of philosophers.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780826489203
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	07/10/2007
Series:	Guides for the Perplexed
Pages:	184
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.56(d)

About the Author

Franklin Perkins is Assistant Professor of Philosophy at DePaul University, Chicago, USA, and has published a number of books and articles on Leibniz.

Table of Contents

1. Reading Leibniz  
2. God and the Best Possible World
The Two Principles of Knowledge The Existence of God The Nature of God The Best of All Possible Worlds
3. Substances
Substance in Early Modern Philosophy The Simplicity and Unity of Substance in Leibniz Substances as Points of View on the Universe Interaction and Pre-Established Harmony
 

4. Rational Minds
Minute Perceptions and Levels of Awareness Necessary Truths and Innate Ideas Knowledge Identity and Choice
Conclusion