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Philosophy harmonizes physical mechanics with ultimate spiritual purpose

Leibniz constructs his philosophical system to reconcile mechanical physical explanations with teleological principles. Rational philosophy must treat human thought not as an isolated abstract realm, but as the active organizing principle that gives reality its organic unity. Dewey demonstrates how this synthesis resolves the dualism separating nature from spirit.

Mind operates as an active organism rather than a passive slate

John Locke treats the human mind as a blank surface imprinted entirely by external sensations. Leibniz rejects this passive model, insisting that the mind contains inherent activity and virtual capacities that experience unfolds into explicit awareness. Thought develops through internal principles rather than mere external additions.

Experience unfolds from internal principles rather than external impressions

Sensations cannot exist as isolated fragments entering an empty mental vessel. Leibniz shows that every perception presupposes an active, unified substance capable of organizing sensory material into meaningful experience. Human understanding reflects the innate architecture of the mind expressing itself in response to external stimulation.

Subconscious perceptions maintain continuous activity across all mental states

Minute, unperceived impressions continuously form the background of conscious thought without reaching explicit attention. Leibniz uses these minute perceptions to establish unbroken continuity between raw sensation and distinct rational knowledge. Mind is never wholly passive or unconscious, maintaining continuous activity even in deep sleep.

Book

Leibniz's New Essays: A Critical Exposition

John Dewey explains Leibniz's critique of Locke, revealing mind as an active, self-developing organism rather than a blank slate.

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