week 13

Question 1

What is a defining feature of Leibniz’s concept of monads?

Answer 1

They are indivisible, immaterial substances that operate through internal causation.

Question 2

What is the main difference between mechanistic causation and internal causation in Leibniz’s view?

Answer 2

Mechanistic causation relies on external interactions, while internal causation comes from within the monad.

Question 3

Which of the following are characteristics of monads in Leibniz’s philosophy? (Select all that apply)

Answer 3

• They operate through internal causation.
• They have perception and appetition.

Question 4

What does Leibniz mean by “pre-established harmony”?

Answer 4

Each monad mirrors the universe and unfolds its state in coordination with others without direct interaction.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes ‘appetition’ in Leibniz’s theory?

Answer 5

The internal drive that propels change within a monad.

Question 6

Which type of spontaneity refers specifically to rational agents making choices based on deliberation?

Answer 6

Agent spontaneity.

Question 7

According to Leibniz, when is an action considered fully attributable to an agent? (Select all that apply)

Answer 7

• When it aligns with the agent’s internal principles.
• When it stems from the agent’s rational self.