Leibnizs Metaphysics of Time and Space

Leibnizs metaphysics of space and time stands at the centre of his philosophy and is one of the high-water marks in the history of the philosophy of science. In this work, Futch provides the first systematic and comprehensive examination of Leibnizs thought on this subject. In addition to elucidating the nature of Leibnizs relationalism, the book fills a lacuna in existing scholarship by examining his views on the topological structure of space and time, including the unity and unboundedness of space and time. It is shown that, like many of his more recent counterparts, Leibniz adopts a causal theory of time where temporal facts are grounded on causal facts, and that his approach to time represents a precursor to non-tensed theories of time. Futch then goes on to situate Leibnizs philosophy of space and time within the broader context of his idealistic metaphysics and natural theology. Emphasizing the historical background of Leibnizs thought, the book also places him in dialogue with contemporary philosophy of science, underscoring the enduring philosophical interest of Leibnizs metaphysics of time and space.