The Philosophy of Spinoza

Be inspired by the life, work and philosophy of Baruch de Spinoza and leverage AmAre as an approach to cultivate acceptance and joyful living for the benefit of all beings. Baruch de Spinoza, later known as Benedict de Spinoza (November 24, 1632 - February 21, 1677), was a Dutch Jewish philosopher. Revealing considerable scientific aptitude, the breadth and importance of Spinoza's work was not fully realized until years after his death. Today, he is considered one of the great rationalists of the 17th-century philosophy, laying the groundwork for the 18th century Enlightenment and modern biblical criticism. By virtue of his magnum opus, the posthumous Ethics, in which he opposed Descartes' mind-body dualism, Spinoza is considered to be one of Western philosophy's most important philosophers. Philosopher and historian Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel said of all contemporary philosophers, "You are either a Spinozist or not a philosopher at all."Spinoza was raised in the Dutch Jewish community. In time he developed highly controversial ideas regarding the authenticity of the Hebrew Bible and the nature of the Divine. The Jewish religious authorities issued a cherem against him, effectively dismissing him from Jewish society at age 23. His books were also later put on the Catholic Index of banned books.Spinoza lived quietly as a lens grinder, turning down rewards and honors throughout his life, including prestigious teaching positions, and gave his family inheritance to his sister. Spinoza's philosophical accomplishments and moral character prompted 20th century philosopher Gilles Deleuze to name him "the 'prince' of philosophers." Spinoza died at the age of 44 allegedly of a lung illness, perhaps tuberculosis or silicosis exacerbated by fine glass dust inhaled while plying his trade. Spinoza is buried in the churchyard of the Christian Nieuwe Kerk in The Hague. (Source: Wikipedia)In Italian, AmAre means "to love"; in English, interconnectedness: (I)Am (we) are. AmAre stands for being:A - Aware and AcceptingM - Meaningful and MotivatedA - Active and AttentiveR - Resilient and RespectfulE - Eating properly and ExercisingFor more information about AmAre, please visit http://www.amareway.org/