This paper analyses how the notion of final causation is related to the complex of Leibniz’s account of activity of substances. In doing so I will focus on the 3rd paragraph of the Principles of Nature and Grace and on other texts where a similar thesis is proposed. I aim at showing that final causes are better intended as model of explanation rather than a distinct type of causes. I will first analyse two points raised by the PNG thesis: that it applies to all simple substances and its opposition with causation as it occurs in bodies, with the aim of highlighting some of the features of final causation in substances, to then focus on two questions. Is final causation, being situated at the level of simple substances, the most fundamental causal process in Leibniz’s metaphysics? How should the causal role of goals be understood?
Activity and final causes. On Principles of Nature and Grace §3
Federico Silvestri
2020
Abstract
This paper analyses how the notion of final causation is related to the complex of Leibniz’s account of activity of substances. In doing so I will focus on the 3rd paragraph of the Principles of Nature and Grace and on other texts where a similar thesis is proposed. I aim at showing that final causes are better intended as model of explanation rather than a distinct type of causes. I will first analyse two points raised by the PNG thesis: that it applies to all simple substances and its opposition with causation as it occurs in bodies, with the aim of highlighting some of the features of final causation in substances, to then focus on two questions. Is final causation, being situated at the level of simple substances, the most fundamental causal process in Leibniz’s metaphysics? How should the causal role of goals be understood?I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
