Spinozas Ethics

Baruch Spinoza (1632-1677) was born in Amsterdam during a period of unprecedented scientific, artistic, and intellectual discovery. Upon its release, Spinoza's Ethics was banned; today it is the quintessential example of philosophical method. Although acknowledged as difficult, the book is widely taught in philosophy, literature, history, and politics. This introduction is designed to be read side by side with Spinoza's work. As a guide to the style, vocabulary, and arguments of the Ethics, it offers a range of interpretive possibilities to prepare students to become conversant with Spinoza's philosophical method and his challenge to conventional thinking.

"In this engaging and unpretentious introduction, Beth Lord guides the beginning student through the maze of propositions and axioms of Spinoza's Ethics with unflagging patience and encouragement. Teachers and students alike should welcome this new addition to Spinoza studies." --Moira Gatens, University of Sydney, Australia

"Guides students through Part 1 [of Spinoza's text] and then continues with them as a companion on their journey through the rest of the work." --Tammy Nyden-Bullock, Grinnell College Indiana University Press

"This will be an invaluable resource for students and teachers alike." --Stephen Houlgate, University of Warwick

"[N]o introduction is better suited to first-time readers, among philosophy students or the Spinoza-curious in the wider public, than Beth Lord's Spinoza's Ethics.... Lord has written an illuninating guide that takes the student through the five parts of Spinoza's Ethics with an inviting, conversational style that does not shy away from difficult questions." --Philosophy in Review, XXXI, no. 4 Indiana University Press

Beth Lord teaches philosophy at the University of Dundee, Scotland.