What connects the concepts of monads and consciousness according to Leibniz?

Leibniz's concept of monads is central to his understanding of consciousness and the nature of reality. Monads are described as simple substances that are immaterial and devoid of physical properties, which allows them to exist independently. Each monad has its own unique perspective of the universe and reflects the entire cosmos from its point of view.

The idea that monads reflect one another's desires captures the relational aspect of consciousness. Each monad does not directly interact with others; instead, their perceptions and state of being mirror one another in a pre-established harmony orchestrated by a higher power. This reflection implies a connection among monads, whereby they represent their own experiences and the experiences of others, illustrating a kind of consciousness that is inherently linked and interdependent.

This understanding of monads and their interconnected reflections sheds light on Leibniz’s view that consciousness is not merely an isolated phenomenon but is intricately woven into the fabric of the universe through these monadic relationships.