Leibniz, Mysticism and Religion

Abstract

Papers from a workshop conference held Nov. 18-19, 1994 in the William Andrews Clark Library, Los Angeles, Calif. While this book will especially appeal to Leibniz scholars, it has much to recommend it to readers interested in the philosophy, theology, and science of early modern Europe. This important, well-researched collection of essays will change many readers' perceptions of Leibniz and of the seventeenth century. Dealing with such subjects as Leibniz's occult sources, his interest in mysticism, Kabbalah, and Chinese philosophy, and his attitude towards enthusiasm, the authors provide new insights into Leibniz's thought and the cultural context in which he lived. The individual essays bring forward much in the way of new primary material, while at the same time conserving the valuable aspects of older commentators on Leibniz (Baruzi, Meyer, Loemker). The fact that the authors frequently disagree makes this an exciting collection that is bound to provoke discussion and debate. 1. Some Occult Influences on Leibniz's Monadology / Stuart Brown -- 2. Leibniz and Mysticism / Donald Rutherford -- 3. Leibniz and the Kabbalah / Allison P. Coudert -- 4. Leibniz, Benzelius, and Swedenborg: The Kabbalistic Roots of Swedish Illuminism / Marcia Keith Scuchard -- 5. Leibniz on Enthusiasm / Daniel J. Cook -- 6. Leibniz and Chinese Thought / Yuen-Ting Lai -- 7. Leibniz as a Lutheran / Ursula Goldenbaum.