Reviews

Baruch Spinoza: The Netherlands (1632-1677) by Thomas Cook

jadag88's review

5.0

This audio book by Thomas Cook, narrated by Charlton Heston, was my first introduction to the pioneering philosopher Baruch Spinoza. The narration was exquisite, and the story was compelling and informational.

For more of my thoughts on this book, see Getting to Know Baruch Spinoza.

lipsandpalms's review

3.0

While some of Spinoza's ideas are derivative,(for example the concept of the 'infinite and self causal substance' is a rehash of Aristotle's unmoved mover) I can see the appeal of his perspective. If God exists, not in the abrahamic sense but as a personification of natural order, then people are a part of God just as a tree or celestial bodies are. In this perspective, determinism is real and therefore choice is an illusion. It makes sense that this perspective would lend itself to avoiding negative emotions towards the actions of others or the circumstances of existence in general.

By saying God does not have emotions and is incapable of reciprocating human love, I can see how he alienated theologists and was labeled dangerous and atheistic.

Personally I don't believe in determinism or the mind. I believe only in the physical structure of the brain that generates a narrative of self. The rest is chaos

kahawa's review

4.0

Short, but a good intro to Spinoza with an overview of both his life and thinking. Now onto something deeper.....

mdrfromga's review

3.0

Helpful intro into Spinoza's thinking. (Remarkable to consider his rationalist theories in light of current philosophical advances.)

mikusa's review

4.0

Short, but a good intro to Spinoza with an overview of both his life and thinking. Now onto something deeper.....