A Study Of Leibniz’s Moral Thoughts

This paper takes Leibniz’s moral thoughts as the research subject.The thoughts is a relatively stable ideological system rarely found in Leibniz’s life,which is gradually generated with the continuous evolution of his metaphysics and theology system,and at the same time it exists independently of them.Leibniz’s moral theory is characterized by clear logic,rich content and profound influence.As to the theoretical origin,Leibniz’s moral theory fully inherits the positive ideas of thinkers in the past,and that the ideas of ancient Greece,middle ages,and modern Europe can be followed or denied in a certain aspect in Leibniz’s moral thoughts.On this basis,Leibniz put forward his own moral thoughts comprehensively.As to the development of Leibniz’s moral thoughts,before the formation of metaphysical system,Leibniz had begun to discuss the moral problems of happiness and good.It can be said that his "ethics" preceded "metaphysics" and "theology".The principles,basis and regulations of moral thought have also been explained in the texts of different periods.The publication of "Monadology" marks the final establishment of Leibniz’s moral thoughts.It can be said that in Leibniz’s whole moral thoughts,monad has always played an important role.First of all,the metaphor of "monad is a vivid mirror reflecting the universe" has been endowed with profound moral significance in the process of its formation.Secondly,the moral meaning of monad is presented through three characteristics:one is the ability of representing time and space;the other is the ability of different perception;the third is monad’s ability of self-reflection.Finally,"the list of self-reflection is also the best reflection of others" means that no matter in the past,present and future,people have a common moral responsibility to care for others and best present the perfect world.As to the core content,Leibniz’s moral thoughts presents not only the traditional ethical themes of "good" and "justice",but also the theory of "the best world" as the core.The best world theory outlines a new picture of the world,breeds an optimistic spirit and a positive way of life,so as to comfort people’s hearts.It is in this sense that Leibniz’s moral thought realizes the blending and unification of a gradually perfect individual and a continuously good society.As to the the internal logic and basic characteristics,the basic logic of Leibniz’s moral thoughts is from entity to God,and finally to ethics.The theoretical purpose is to construct "a moral world full of love".A logical thread throughout the whole process is the discussion of freedom.At the same time,the basic characteristics of Leibniz’s moral thoughts are full of "subjectivity" factors.As to the significance and value,Leibniz’s moral thoughts is of great significance and value both in theory and practice.In theory,first of all,the establishment of moral thoughts provides a new perspective and way to re understand the integrity of Leibniz’s philosophy.Secondly,it points out that Leibniz’s moral thoughts has two influences on Kant’s Moral Metaphysics:one is to find a universal basis for morality;the other is optimism.Finally,the connection between Leibniz’s moral theory and metaphysics provides the possibility for the reconstruction of contemporary metaphysics.In practice,Leibniz’s moral thoughts has the flaunting significance of the truth,morality and civilization of the times,and represents the unique temperament of human spirit which is rational,optimistic and good,which has a positive guiding role in our perspective and positioning of the spirit and flavor of the times.