Physics and Civil Science in Leibniz’s Writings

Notes on a Shared Vocabulary

Abstract

The article aims to provide a basic glossary of the lexical intersections between physics and politics in Leibniz’s writings and to offer an interpretative framework for understanding these intersections. The leading idea is that linguistic and lexicographical analysis discloses a structural relationship – manifesting at times as symmetry, at others as radical continuity – between the domains of physics and politics, and, consequently, between corporeal and civil structures and their respective operative models. Taking all elements into account, including the metaphors frequently employed by Leibniz, it is proposed that – to some extent – one may legitimately speak of an analogical mode of thinking underlying Leibniz’s approach to these two spheres. Furthermore, it is argued that this way of thinking is perfectly consistent with Leibniz’s metaphysical assumptions, global view of the universe, and method of inquiry.