Affirmation and Resistance in Spinoza: The Strategy of the Conatus

Offers a powerful and influential interpretation of Spinoza's conatus

Format: Unspecified
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Offers a powerful and influential interpretation of Spinoza's conatus
Provides a thorough overview of political theories, clarifying different philosophical traditions that are often obscured under the generic label of modernity
Develops an original analysis of Spinoza's philosophy, based on the concept of conatus, which has been largely neglected in Anglo-Saxon scholarship
Broadens access to the wealth of un-translated literature on Spinoza

Spinozism must be understood as a dynamic ontology that necessarily unfolds on practical terrain. Laurent Bove analyzes Spinoza's theory of affects as rooted in Habit, generating the constituent power of human beings, commonwealths, nations, and multitudes. By interpreting sovereignty as a power that emerges through the active resistance of the always singular body of the multitude, Bove discovers in Spinoza a radically new approach to the State, citizenship, and history.

Through his meticulous examination of Spinoza's texts, Bove reveals the profound implications of Spinoza's philosophy for contemporary political thought. He challenges the conventional understanding of power as a hierarchical and centralized force, instead proposing that power emerges from the collective actions of individuals and social groups. Bove's interpretation of Spinoza's political thought offers a valuable alternative to traditional theories of sovereignty and democracy, emphasizing the importance of collective agency and the resistance of marginalized voices.

In addition to his analysis of political theory, Bove also delves into the broader implications of Spinoza's philosophy for our understanding of human nature and the natural world. He explores the concept of conatus, which refers to the inherent drive or striving towards self-preservation and the improvement of one's condition. Bove argues that conatus is not merely a biological instinct, but a fundamental aspect of human nature that motivates us to engage in ethical and political behavior.

Through his innovative interpretation of Spinoza, Bove provides a fresh perspective on the challenges facing contemporary society. He challenges us to rethink our relationship to power, to recognize the importance of collective action, and to strive for a more just and equitable world. Bove's book is a must-read for anyone interested in political philosophy, philosophy of mind, and the history of ideas.

Weight: 580g
Dimension: 240 x 160 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474430579