Question

Which philosopher accepts 'the doctrine of Occasionalists'?

• A. Spinoza
• B. Leibniz
• C. Hume
• D. Kant

Hint:

Leibniz’s occasionalism was tied to his view that God plays an active role in the causal structure of the universe, particularly in mind-body interactions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Doctrine of Occasionalism.
Occasionalism is the view that causal relations between material events are explained by God’s intervention. In this view, God is the ultimate cause of every event that occurs. The philosopher associated with the doctrine of occasionalism is Malebranche, but Leibniz also incorporated aspects of occasionalism in his philosophy, especially regarding the relation between mind and body.
Step 2: Analyzing the Options.
- 1. Spinoza: Spinoza believed in pantheism and did not endorse occasionalism. He viewed the universe as a single substance. - 2. Leibniz: This is correct. Leibniz incorporated some elements of occasionalism in his metaphysics, especially in his explanations of the interaction between the soul and the body. - 3. Hume: Hume was skeptical of causality and did not subscribe to occasionalism. He focused more on empirical and psychological explanations of causality. - 4. Kant: Kant also did not support occasionalism. His focus was on the nature of knowledge and metaphysics, not causal relations mediated by God.
Step 3: Conclusion. The correct answer is 2. Leibniz.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{The correct answer is 2. Leibniz.}} \]