Think Least of Death: Spinoza on How to Live and How to Die

Steven Nadler's Think Least of Death connects Spinoza's ideas with his life and times to offer a guide to living one's best life. Spinoza presents his vision of the ideal human being, the "free person" who lives a life of joy devoted to improving oneself and others. Free people treat others with benevolence, justice, and charity and enjoy the pleasures of this world in moderation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 22 September 2020
Publisher: Princeton University Press

In 1656, following his excommunication from the Portuguese-Jewish community in Amsterdam due to "abominable heresies" and "monstrous deeds," the young Baruch Spinoza abandoned his family's import business to dedicate himself to philosophy. He soon gained notoriety throughout Europe for his controversial views on God, the Bible, and miracles, as well as his unwavering defense of free thought. However, the radical nature of Spinoza's ideas has often overshadowed the fact that his primary motivation for turning to philosophy was to address one of humanity's most pressing questions: How can we lead a good life and experience happiness in a world without a providential God?

In his book "Think Least of Death," Pulitzer Prize finalist Steven Nadler explores the connection between Spinoza's ideas and his life and times, offering a compelling account of how the philosopher can guide individuals toward living their best lives. In the "Ethics," Spinoza presents his vision of the ideal human being, the "free person," who is motivated by reason and lives a life of joy, devoted to improving oneself and others. Free individuals are untroubled by passions such as hate, greed, and envy, treating others with benevolence, justice, and charity. They focus on the rewards of goodness and enjoy the pleasures of this world, but in moderation. Spinoza writes, "The free person thinks least of all of death, and his wisdom is a meditation not on death but on life."

An unparalleled introduction to Spinoza's moral philosophy, "Think Least of Death" demonstrates how his ideas remain relevant and valuable in today's world. By examining Spinoza's perspective on the nature of human existence, his ethical principles, and his understanding of the relationship between reason and happiness, readers can gain valuable insights into how to live a fulfilling and ethical life. Whether one is seeking a deeper understanding of philosophy or simply looking for practical advice on how to navigate the challenges of modern life, "Think Least of Death" is an essential read.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 150 x 224 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691183848