Newton and Leibniz on the Relativity of Motion

Abstract In some respects, there is more agreement between Newton and Leibniz on the relativity of motion than is generally recognized. Both were convinced Copernicans, and both accepted that motion could not be a merely extrinsic denomination—there would have to be true motions, and not just apparent ones. And both sought to discriminate true from apparent motions by reference to the causes of motion and to force. Where they differed was in …