Post 3

Spinoza’s philosophy is on that has a basis of reason. Reason brings about adequate ideas help set the mind at ease. These ideas allow the mind to believe that the outcome of a situation was inevitable. Realizing that something is inevitable allows the mind to relax because they know that nothing could have been done to change it. Passions, on the other hand, can sway the life of a person to evil rather than good. Spinoza argues that people act in ways to persevere and by doing so act in ways that stabilize society. If people lived by reason alone, there would be no need for laws, but the passion enveloping people’s brains end up conflicting with one another. Spinoza also believes that knowing that God exists is the greatest good a person can have. This knowledge of God allows for the understanding of everything that is from God. Spinoza’s pantheistic philosophy lies in this idea. God is where everything comes from. Knowing that there is a God and that this is where we come from allows the mind to understand more fully everything around it. In knowing God people can have an intellectual love for Him and all His wonders. It is easier to see all of His perfections. Spinoza admits that it is difficult to have adequate ideas and keep passions out of our minds. It is like fighting off instincts. He does not believe it to be impossible. This form of ethics is placing morals in reason and with reason one can know God and act accordingly to keep society in peace.