What determines the hierarchy within the monads proposed by Leibniz?

The hierarchy within the monads as proposed by Leibniz is determined by the inherent qualities of each monad. Leibniz’s philosophy posits that monads are simple substances that cannot interact with one another in a physical sense but still reflect the universe in a unique way. Each monad possesses its own qualities, which include perceptions and appetitions that contribute to its individuality and place within the hierarchy.

Higher monads, such as those associated with human consciousness, are more complex in their perceptions and have a greater degree of clarity and depth in their conceptualizations of the world. In contrast, lower monads have less developed perceptions and reflect a more blurred view of the universe. This intrinsic hierarchy created by the qualities of each monad ensures that they all mirror the universe, but to varying degrees of sophistication, leading to a structured order among them.