The Apostolic Style: Spinoza on Fraternal Advice and the Freedom to Philosophize
Bloomsbury Room (G.35), Ground Floor, South Block, Senate House, London WC1E 7HU
Abstract:
In this paper, I discuss a chapter of the Tractatus Theologico-Politicus that is rarely commented on, namely Chapter XI. It is particular for the TTP in that it is exclusively dedicated to the interpretation of the New Testament, more specifically, the Apostles' Letters. I will show how, in the first part of that chapter, Spinoza argues that the epistolary style of the apostles, and the discursive room it establishes, can serve as a paradigm for the exercise of the “liberty to philosophize” that he shall proceed to defend in Tractatus, chap. XX.
We are planning to hold two meetings this term and are currently organising the schedule for the remainder of the academic year.
Thursday 6th December 2018, 3 – 5pm, Room number to be confirmed.
Clare Carlisle (King’s College London)
George Eliot’s Spinoza.
No registration is required and meetings are open to all.
