Chapter 23 Leibniz and Optics Jeffrey K. McDonough Introduction

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Chapter 23Leibniz and OpticsJeffrey K. McDonoughIntroductionAlthough often overlooked today, optics thrived in the early modern era asa science of first rank engaging many of the best minds of the period andproducing some of its most dramatic scientific results.1 The present essayattempts to shed light on Leibniz’s efforts to contribute to the developmentof early modern optics by focusing on his derivations of the laws ofreflection and refraction.2 The first three sections examine Leibniz’sattempts to derive the central laws of geometrical optics in works drawnfrom his early, middle, and later optical studies. 3 The fourth section brieflyconsiders the broader significance of Leibniz’s sophisticated approach tothe laws of optics. Connections to more familiar themes from Leibniz’sphilosophy are drawn along the way.1. Leges Reflexionis et Refractionis Demonstratae, 1671*