Practice of Power and Experience of the Infinite

Humanity today holds unprecedented power over nature, but this achievement has led to crises — from extreme inequality to climate disaster — that seem beyond our control. Baruch Spinoza’s philosophy offers a profound perspective on this paradox and points to a possible solution. Spinoza suggests that real empowerment comes from enhancing the kind of knowledge we possess, revealing a limitless source of vitality in understanding ourselves as part of a greater whole. But to fully grasp and apply Spinoza’s ideas, we must see him not just as a philosopher, but as a practitioner of a discipline akin to the “yoga” of India. Unlike most Indian yogic traditions, however, Spinoza’s approach emphasizes not renouncing desire but intensifying it. This fresh view makes Spinoza’s philosophy a practical guide for transforming how we live in the world, while also offering new insights into the relevance and application of Indian yogic traditions.

UNIVERSITY OF GRONINGEN PRESS | UGP

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ISBN (ePDF): 9789403431048
DOI 10.21827/6734809a20e8f