GIUSTIZIA E POLITICA IN LEIBNIZ

Abstract

In Leibniz’ writings the notion of justice (justitia, justice, Gerechtigkeit) performs a central function within the most varied spheres, from jurisprudence and politics, in the strict sense, to metaphysics. The fundamental categories of politics are conceived as the search for a common element among individuals belonging to a certain scenario. Light is shed on the relevance of the reference to Greek philosophy (in particular Plato). At the basis of Leibniz’ reasoning is an endeavour to recognize as far as possible the multiplicity of the social and political dimensions without reducing them to a single scheme. The aim, albeit with some internal difficulties, consists in understanding the individual-community relationship within the European context of the epoch, according to a partially different standpoint from that of contractualism (in particular Hobbes). In this sense justice is connected with the search for composite political bodies open to change.