The Benedict de Spinoza Reader

Benedict De Spinoza, Benedict de Spinoza

The Benedict de Spinoza Reader
Format
Hardback
Publisher
Sta
Published
21 May 2024
Pages
490
ISBN
9798880913275

The Benedict de Spinoza Reader

Benedict De Spinoza, Benedict de Spinoza

Benedict de Spinoza's writings laid the groundwork for the 18th century Enlightenment and for modern Biblical criticism. By virtue of his magnum opus the Ethics Spinoza is considered one of Western philosophy's definitive ethicists. Men would never be superstitious if they could govern all their circumstances by set rules or if they were always favoured by fortune: but being frequently driven into straits where rules are useless and being often kept fluctuating pitiably between hope and fear by the uncertainty of fortune's greedily coveted favours they are consequently for the most part very prone to credulity. The human mind is readily swayed this way or that in times of doubt especially when hope and fear are struggling for the mastery though usually it is boastful over-confident and vain.After experience had taught me that all the usual surroundings of social life are vain and futile; seeing that none of the objects of my fears contained in themselves anything either good or bad except in so far as the mind is affected by them I finally resolved to inquire whether there might be some real good having power to communicate itself which would affect the mind singly to the exclusion of all else: whether in fact there might be anything of which the discovery and attainment would enable me to enjoy continuous supreme and unending happiness.Spinoza was one of the great rationalists of 17th century philosophy. He helped lay the groundwork for the 18th century Enlightenment and modern biblical criticism. His correspondence helps shed light on his ethical opinions and positions. Required reading for those who wish a deeper understanding of the writings of Benedict de Spinoza.

This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in approx 2 weeks

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.