The Theory and Rhetoric of Liberty in Spinoza’s Political Philosophy

Authors

  • Larry W. Chappell

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15763/issn.2374-7781.1986.7.0.43-59

Abstract

Benedict Spinoza is widely regarded as a major figure in the history of philosophy and a minor figure in the history of political philosophy. This judgment has merit. Spinoza’s political writings do not approach his Ethics in originality, penetration or influence; nor do they compare well with the writings of the great political philosophers. Nevertheless, Spinoza’s political writings reveal keen insights into problems of liberal thought. His contribution to liberal thought involves attempt to reconcile a Hobbesian conception of authority and an apparent commitment to a wide range of civil liberties.

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Published

1987-01-01

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Section

Articles