Description
Discover a profound exploration of life's poignant questions with 'Think Least of Death' by Pulitzer Prize finalist Steven Nadler. Delve into the transformative philosophy of Baruch Spinoza, who, after facing excommunication from Amsterdam's Portuguese-Jewish community in 1656, shifted his focus to philosophy, seeking answers about leading a fulfilling life sans a providential God. This meticulously crafted 2020 publication from Princeton University Press reveals how Spinoza's radical ideas not only shaped modern thought but also serve as a timeless guide for personal growth.
At the heart of Spinoza's philosophy is his vision of the 'free person'—an individual who embraces reason, joy, and addresses the essential purpose of existence: self-improvement and altruism. Hesitant of negative emotions such as hate and greed, those influenced by his teachings foster benevolence, justice, and charity in their interactions. 'Think Least of Death' illustrates how this luminary believed that true wisdom lies not in contemplating death, but in embracing the intricacies of life. Gain insights into cultivating a life of moderation, joy, and meaningful connections.
With Shipping on this item being free, you can have this thought-provoking read delivered to your doorstep without extra costs. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery after placing your order, as cancellations are not permitted. Elevate your understanding with this must-read guide today.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780691218885
Year: 2020
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780691218885
Year: 2020
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Description:
From Pulitzer Prize-finalist Steven Nadler, an engaging guide to what Spinoza can teach us about life's big questions.
In 1656, after being excommunicated from Amsterdam's Portuguese-Jewish community for 'abominable heresies' and 'monstrous deeds,' the young Baruch Spinoza abandoned his family's import business to dedicate his life to philosophy. He quickly became notorious across Europe for his views on God, the Bible, and miracles, as well as for his uncompromising defense of free thought. Yet the radicalism of Spinoza's views has long obscured that his primary reason for turning to philosophy was to answer one of humanity's most urgent questions: How can we lead a good life and enjoy happiness in a world without a providential God? In Think Least of Death, Pulitzer Prize-finalist Steven Nadler connects Spinoza's ideas with his life and times to offer a compelling account of how the philosopher can provide a guide to living one's best life.
In the Ethics, Spinoza presents his vision of the ideal human being, the 'free person' who, motivated by reason, lives a life of joy devoted to what is most important-improving oneself and others. Untroubled by passions such as hate, greed, and envy, free people treat others with benevolence, justice, and charity. Focusing on the rewards of goodness, they enjoy the pleasures of this world, but in moderation. 'The free person thinks least of all of death,' Spinoza writes, 'and his wisdom is a meditation not on death but on life.'
'A helpful explication of [S
At the heart of Spinoza's philosophy is his vision of the 'free person'—an individual who embraces reason, joy, and addresses the essential purpose of existence: self-improvement and altruism. Hesitant of negative emotions such as hate and greed, those influenced by his teachings foster benevolence, justice, and charity in their interactions. 'Think Least of Death' illustrates how this luminary believed that true wisdom lies not in contemplating death, but in embracing the intricacies of life. Gain insights into cultivating a life of moderation, joy, and meaningful connections.
With Shipping on this item being free, you can have this thought-provoking read delivered to your doorstep without extra costs. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery after placing your order, as cancellations are not permitted. Elevate your understanding with this must-read guide today.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780691218885
Year: 2020
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780691218885
Year: 2020
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Description:
From Pulitzer Prize-finalist Steven Nadler, an engaging guide to what Spinoza can teach us about life's big questions.
In 1656, after being excommunicated from Amsterdam's Portuguese-Jewish community for 'abominable heresies' and 'monstrous deeds,' the young Baruch Spinoza abandoned his family's import business to dedicate his life to philosophy. He quickly became notorious across Europe for his views on God, the Bible, and miracles, as well as for his uncompromising defense of free thought. Yet the radicalism of Spinoza's views has long obscured that his primary reason for turning to philosophy was to answer one of humanity's most urgent questions: How can we lead a good life and enjoy happiness in a world without a providential God? In Think Least of Death, Pulitzer Prize-finalist Steven Nadler connects Spinoza's ideas with his life and times to offer a compelling account of how the philosopher can provide a guide to living one's best life.
In the Ethics, Spinoza presents his vision of the ideal human being, the 'free person' who, motivated by reason, lives a life of joy devoted to what is most important-improving oneself and others. Untroubled by passions such as hate, greed, and envy, free people treat others with benevolence, justice, and charity. Focusing on the rewards of goodness, they enjoy the pleasures of this world, but in moderation. 'The free person thinks least of all of death,' Spinoza writes, 'and his wisdom is a meditation not on death but on life.'
'A helpful explication of [S