Abstract

The chapter XXVII of the second book of Leibniz’s Nouveaux Essais presents at least three interconnected topics: 1) the individuation, 2) the identity; 3) the consciousness. The analysis of the chapter reveals three patterns of interaction between Philalethe and Théophile: a) indirect plausibility; b) dissimulation; 3) replacement. The indirect plausibility consists in the specific mode of confutation of Philalethe’s thesis. Actually, Théophile’s confutation, “Il faut toujours qu'outre la différence du temps et du lieu il y ait un principe interne de distinction”, is not supported by direct evidence, but by the refutation of the theoretical core of the Philalethes’ position. In this way Théophile’s move falls within the genre of the reductio ad falsum, so obtaining an indirect plausibilty for his own thesis. In addition, the apparently irreconciliable difference between Leibniz and Locke regarding identity of man is introduced by the following Théophile’s words: “Cela se peut entendre dans mon sens”. These words seem to suggest an agreement while they introduce a disagreement. In this way, Leibniz seems to use a specific mode of communication belonging to the dissimulation mode. Finally Philalethes’ arguments in favor of the role of consciousness in the definition of self are regarded as easily refutable by Théophile. With the following words, “Voici une autre supposition bien plus convenable”, he proposes to integrate the argument of the opponent. In this way, he tries to see the topic with the eyes of his counterpart. However, even after such a replacement the quality of Philalethes point of view doesn’t improve and it can be defined a “absurdité manifeste”, so confirming Théophile-Leibniz’s position. In conclusion, the analysis of the text reveals a substantial contrastive attitude by Leibniz. This attitude is perfectly summarized by the following words of the §4, referred to Locke’s point of view, “non pas en parlant à la rigueur”.

Autore Pugliese

• Scarafile Giovanni

Tutti gli autori

• G. Scarafile

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Anno di pubblicazione

2011

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Settori ERC

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