The distinction between voluntarism and intellectualism has recently been criticized for inaccurately characterising early modern theories of divine freedom. In response, defenders of the distinction have argued that these labels are needed in order to account for the famous correspondence between Leibniz (intellectualist) and Clarke (voluntarist). In this paper, I argue that the voluntarism/intellectualism distinction is unable to account for the opposition between Leibniz and Clarke. In the first part, I provide an analysis of Clarke's theory of divine freedom, and show how he employs the distinction between activity and passivity in order to account for the separation between God's will and intellect, which ultimately safeguards God's freedom. I also analyse Clarke's correspondence with Leibniz, and show how Clarke deals with choice among equals, the principle of sufficient reason, and the principle of the best. In the second part, I argue on the basis of this analysis that Clarke is not a voluntarist, but should instead be interpreted as an intellectualist (if one wants to keep the labels). Therefore, the Leibniz-Clarke correspondence cannot be explained as a clash between voluntarism and intellectualism.

It takes a village to write a dissertation. Or maybe two. I would first like to thank the Faculty of Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies at the Radboud University of Nijmegen. It was here that I discovered my love for the history of ideas, and where I was incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by the friendly people and great expertise of the Center for the History of Philosophy and Science. Carla-Rita, thank you for being an incredible role model, and for the many hours of discussion we have had over the years. Most of all, thank you for always believing in me and giving me the push needed to overcome the hurdles along the way. I would also like to thank others of the center, including Cristoph Lüthy, Chris Buskes, Sanne Stuur and Lyke de Vries, all of whom were instrumental in shaping my ideas and interests.After finishing my master's at Nijmegen, I was fortunate enough to get a position at the University of Groningen. Half a world away (at least for Dutch standards), in a landscape very different from the hills I grew up in, moving to Groningen took some time adjusting. But it is a city, university, and faculty that very easily feels like home, thanks in no small part to the amazing people I met during this time. A special thanks for the PhDs of the Oude Boteringestraat 52. I've thoroughly enjoyed learning about each other's research, exchanging ideas and insights across all disciplines of philosophy. Sharing an office with you all made my PhD rarely feel lonely, and the genuine care, support and friendship was much appreciated. Cheers to all the PhD's, old and new, who help keep alive this welcoming and supportive atmosphere. Sanne, Merel, Crystel, Cesar, Oberto: Thank you for your friendship and support, and above all for all the dinner parties and lunches we enjoyed together.Lodi, thank you for your supervision and trust. To you befell the unenviable task of keeping me on track, focused and motivated, not to mention reminding me every so often to 'stop reading, and start writing'. Despite my best efforts to veer off-course, get side-tracked, or feeling like giving up, you managed to keep me on track enough to finish this dissertation. Han-Thomas, Andrea, many thanks for your sharp comments and help in navigating the many obscure notions of seventeenth century philosophy.Laura, thank you for your energy, your whirlwind of ideas, and your talent for seeing the best in everyone. I can never remember what we talked about during our countless hours of intense conversations, but they were some of the most fun conversations I've ever had. Kritika, I would not be surprised if by now you're holding the record on 'most often acknowledged in PhD dissertations' -and rightly so. You'd forget your own head if it wasn't attached, but you never forget to ask your friends how they are doing. Many thanks for your friendship.Rosanne, thank you for being by my side, for your unconditional love and belief in me, and for supporting me all these years. Groningen, May 31st, 2022 1. Anonymous, The Vanity of Philosophick Syste...