Meaning:
Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, a prominent German philosopher and mathematician, made significant contributions to the fields of metaphysics, epistemology, and logic. The quote "I also take it as granted that every created thing, and consequently the created monad also, is subject to change, and indeed that this change is continual in each one" reflects his philosophical views on the nature of existence and the concept of monads.
In order to fully understand this quote, it is important to delve into Leibniz's theory of monads. According to Leibniz, monads are the ultimate units of reality, indivisible and immaterial substances that make up the fabric of the universe. These monads are characterized by their perceptions, which represent the entire universe from their unique perspectives. Each monad is distinct and reflects the world in a way that is different from any other monad.
Leibniz's assertion that every created thing, including monads, is subject to change aligns with his belief in the dynamic nature of the universe. He posited that monads are in a constant state of change, with their perceptions evolving in response to the unfolding of the universe. This idea of continual change in each monad underscores the dynamic and fluid nature of existence, as well as the interconnectedness of all created things.
Leibniz's philosophy of monads and his views on change are deeply rooted in his broader metaphysical framework. He rejected the notion of material substance and instead proposed a metaphysical system based on the existence of immaterial monads. For Leibniz, these monads are the fundamental building blocks of reality, and their interactions and perceptions give rise to the world as we experience it.
Furthermore, Leibniz's concept of change in monads can be linked to his principle of pre-established harmony. According to this principle, each monad operates in accordance with a pre-established plan that harmonizes with the actions of other monads. This harmonious interaction ensures that the changes occurring in each monad align with the changes in all other monads, contributing to the overall coherence and order of the universe.
Leibniz's philosophical ideas, including the concept of monads and the notion of continual change, have had a lasting impact on the development of metaphysics and philosophy of mind. His emphasis on the dynamic nature of reality and the interconnectedness of all things has influenced subsequent philosophical thought, particularly in the realms of idealism and metaphysical theories of perception.
In conclusion, Leibniz's quote regarding the continual change in created things, including monads, sheds light on his profound philosophical insights into the nature of existence. His theory of monads and his broader metaphysical framework provide a rich context for understanding the dynamic and interconnected nature of reality. By exploring Leibniz's ideas, we gain valuable perspectives on the nature of change, perception, and the fundamental structure of the universe.