Philosophical Mining or Theoria cum praxi

This paper examines the natural philosophy of the German philosopher Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz with regard to his ability to apply theoretical reflections in the contemporary (technological) practice and develop a consistent natural-philosophical system. In addition to textual analysis, the paper is also based on an analysis of the historical context. Although Abraham Gottlob Werner is commonly regarded as the founder of so-called philosophical mining, i.e., a geo-physics based on empirical data, Leibniz anticipated several ideas later associated with Werner. However, Leibniz’s Protogaea, in which he applied his metaphysics and geometry to the issue of fossils, is certainly not among the best-known of Leibniz’s works. A consequence, or perhaps cause, of that is that Leibniz is thought of as a “mere” theorist. And yet, the only objection that could be raised against him in this respect is his distrust in the practical judgement of his more experienced colleagues.