Spinoza, a Physics of Thought - (Spinoza Studies) by Francois Zourabichvili (Hardcover)

About the Book

An essential text for understanding the problem of change or transformation in Spinoza's metaphysics and unique in its analyses of his concept of childhood and the nature of absolute monarchy.

Book Synopsis

This book is a systematic study of the paradoxical character of Spinoza's political philosophy, theory of change, and conception of childhood by one of his most original interpreters. Spinoza's Paradoxical Conservatism highlights the radical novelty of the philosopher's work while drawing attention to previously underappreciated aspects of his philosophy and providing decisive historical context for his interventions in political theory and pedagogy. The problem of transformation in Spinoza's philosophy is explored across three studies: one on ethical conversion and becoming wise, one on childhood and growing up, and one on absolute monarchy and the 'free multitude'. This volume contains as an appendix a discussion with Pierre Macherey, whose critical response to the book provided an occasion for the author to clarify the themes and stakes of the investigation.

Review Quotes

A bold and original statement of Spinoza's philosophy of the body through form and matter, motion and rest, sickness and health and - importantly - thought and ideas. With this book, available in English for the first time, French materialist Spinozism takes a new and unprecedented turn.--Beth Lord, The University of Aberdeen

Many have turned to Spinoza for a theory of the body, restoring affects and desire to a philosophical tradition burdened by idealism. Zourabichvili demonstrates that Spinoza is also a thinker of the mind, of the production, generation, and transformation of ideas. A fundamental contribution to Spinoza scholarship and contemporary philosophy.--Jason Read, University of Southern Maine