Which type of monad is considered the highest form of consciousness according to Leibniz's hierarchy?

The highest form of consciousness in Leibniz's hierarchy is represented by rational monads. Rational monads possess self-awareness and the capacity for reason, distinguishing them from simpler forms of monads. Simple monads are basic, unreflective units of perception with no consciousness or awareness. Sentient monads have a level of consciousness that includes sensations and perceptions but lack the reasoning capability that rational monads exhibit. The supreme monad, while it represents the ultimate essence of reality and is considered the source of all monads, does not reflect an individual state of consciousness like rational monads.

Rational monads, therefore, are the most advanced in terms of consciousness as they can abstractly reason, make judgments, and have complex self-reflection. They form the pinnacle of complexity in Leibniz’s philosophical framework, embodying the highest cognitive capabilities.