This book introduces students to the life, work and ideas of Gottfried Leibniz, taking the reader new to the subject through the key themes of his writings. Gottfried Leibniz was one of the most important and influential philosophers of the seventeenth century and, alongside Descartes and Spinoza, one of the three great Rationalist thinkers. Covering all the key concepts of his work, ''Starting with Leibniz'' provides an accessible introduction to the ideas of this hugely significant thinker. Thematically structured, the book leads the reader through a thorough overview of the development of Leibniz's thought, resulting in a more thorough understanding of the roots of his philosophical concerns. Offering coverage of the full range of Leibniz's ideas, the book explores his work on substance, mind, body, matter, the existence of God, dynamics and the philosophy of science. Crucially the book introduces the major influences on Leibniz's thought, including Aristotle, Plato, Descartes and Spinoza. This is the ideal introduction for anyone coming to the work of this hugely important thinker for the first time. ''Continuum's Starting with Series'' offers clear, concise and accessible introductions to the key thinkers in philosophy. The books explore and illuminate the roots of each philosopher's work and ideas, leading readers to a thorough understanding of the key influences and philosophical foundations from which his or her thought developed. Ideal for first-year students starting out in philosophy, the series will serve as the ideal companion to study of this fascinating subject.