Spinoza's Geometry of Power [Paperback]

A compelling view of existence as a realization of power, possessing an internal structure akin to that of geometrical objects.The book develops a new interpretation of Spinoza's philosophy as a doctrine according to which genuine things exist and operate in ways as clearly discernible as geometrical objects' properties. This offers a compelling view of human existence as realization of power.The book develops a new interpretation of Spinoza's philosophy as a doctrine according to which genuine things exist and operate in ways as clearly discernible as geometrical objects' properties. This offers a compelling view of human existence as realization of power.This work examines the unique way in which Benedict de Spinoza (163277) combines two significant philosophical principles: that real existence requires causal power and that geometrical objects display exceptionally clearly how things have properties in virtue of their essences. Valtteri Viljanen argues that underlying Spinoza's psychology and ethics is a compelling metaphysical theory according to which each and every genuine thing is an entity of power endowed with an internal structure akin to that of geometrical objects. This allows Spinoza to offer a theory of existence and of action  human and non-human alike  as dynamic striving that takes place with the same kind of necessity and intelligibility that pertain to geometry. Viljanen's fresh and original study will interest a wide range of readers in Spinoza studies and early modern philosophy more generally.Introduction; 1. Spinoza on being; 2. Causation and geometry; 3. Power, existence, activity; 4. The derivation of the conatus doctrine; 5. The meaning of the conatus doctrine; 6. Geometrical dynamics of individuality; Conclusion. Viljanen rescues Spinoza's metaphysics from interpreters who push too hard in domesticating his radical ideas. In building his interpretation, he makes excellent use not only of Spinoza's text, but also of scholarship in medievls#