Leibniz defined a perfection as a simple, positive quality in the highest degree.

Norman Malcolm says

I do not find his definition of a perfection intelligible. For one thing, it assumes that certain qualities or attributes are "positive" in their intrinsic nature, and others "negative" or "privative," and I have not been able clearly to understand that. For another thing, it assumes that some qualities are intrinsically simple

I'd very much like to see a discussion about this definition and about the objections that Malcolm mentions but I haven't been able to find one. Are there any recommended articles or books about this topic?

Leibniz defined a perfection as a simple, positive quality in the highest degree.

Norman Malcolm says

I do not find his definition of a perfection intelligible. For one thing, it assumes that certain qualities or attributes are "positive" in their intrinsic nature, and others "negative" or "privative," and I have not been able clearly to understand that. For another thing, it assumes that some qualities are intrinsically simple

I'd very much like to see a discussion about this definition and about the objections that Malcolm mentions but I haven't been able to find one. Are there any recommended articles or books about this topic?