Towards a new conception of metaphysics: Lambert’s criticism on Wolff’s mathematical method

Abstract

This paper discusses Lambert’s criticism of Wolff’s mathematical method. I take this criticism to consist of two main aspects. Lambert tries on the one hand to revise Wolff’s idea of fundamental concepts by providing what he takes to be a more profound theory of concepts. On the other hand, Lambert introduces postulates that regulate the connection between fundamental concepts and account for their application to experience. Both transformations allow Lambert to put forward a novel approach to metaphysics which is essentially oriented towards experience.