Leibniz and the Rational Order of Nature - Hardcover

Rutherford, Donald

9780521461559: Leibniz and the Rational Order of Nature

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521461553 ISBN 13: 9780521461559

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1995

This is the most up-to-date and comprehensive interpretation of the philosophy of Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz (1646-1716). Among its other virtues, it makes considerable use of unpublished manuscript sources. The book seeks to demonstrate the systematic unity of Leibniz's thought, in which theodicy, ethics, metaphysics and natural philosophy cohere. The key, underlying idea of the system is the conception of nature as an order designed by God to maximize the opportunities for the exercise of reason.

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Review:

"Rutherford writes with great clarity, he sets forth his ideas in a well-organized fashion, and his interpretations are well informed and cogent. This book will be of interest to specialists in early modern philosophy, because it challenges some `standard' interpretations of Leibniz's philosophy. Yet, because the author offers an interpretation of Leibniz's entire philosophical project, it will also be useful for nonspecialists who want to become more familiar with Leibniz's thinking on the whole." The Review of Metaphysics

"...succeeds in providing a most coherent reading of Leibniz by piecing together the most appealing Leibnizian system out of disparate doctrines....Rutherford's systematizing of Leibniz is often brilliant; it allows him to explore Leibnizian issues in a novel fashion." ISIS

"Unfortunately, Leibniz, one of the great systematic thinkers in Western intellectual history, is near-impossible to treat systematically. But in Donald Rutherford's new book, this near-impossible task not only gets done, it gets done exactly right....It's a daunting task, but Rutherford was undaunted....Donald Rutherford has produced a fine, fine book on Leibniz. Under Rutherford's expert guidance, anyone interested in the history and philosophy of physics can come to understand how and why Leibniz is the pivotal figure that he is." Foundations of Physics

"Rutherford's work is refreshing and clear. His treatment of such topics as divine justice, harmony, substance, souls, and matter is cogent and well argued. A valuable addition for both the novice and the experienced Leibnizian. One of the best of a recent spate of Leibniz books. Highly recommended for all libraries." Choice

"Rutherford's well-researched and beautifully written individual essays have always been a pleasure to read and intellectualy rewarding as well...there is no question that he is an author to follow." Catherine Wilson, Philosophy in Review

"...excellent book." The Philosophical Review

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