ORIGINS OF MODERNITY

philosophy

Clarke, Samuel (1675-1729)
A collection of papers, which passed between the late learned Mr. Leibnitz, and Dr.Clarke, in the years 1715 and 1716 : relating to the principles of natural philosophy and religion.
London : Printed for James Knapton ..., 1717.

The Leibniz/Clarke correspondence is one of the richest early modern sources of discussion about the philosophical implications of Newton’s natural philosophy. It comprises an exchange of ten letters, or papers, which explore a range of issues with a striking clarity and depth. The exchange is best known for its discussion of absolute vs relative space, but many other fundamental questions in metaphysics are examined. There are treatments of the impact of Newton’s thought for religion, discussions of the nature of the void, the Principle of Sufficient Reason and the Identity of Indiscernibles. This first edition was prepared for publication by the divine Samuel Clarke (1675-1729) and quickly became immensely popular.