Essay Questions

What are the main points made in Part II: Of Nature & Its Origin?

In this part, Spinoza argues that the body and the mind are two separate entities but can have an effect on the other. He puts forward the notion that though the body is important, the mind is more so and that when we do not use concepts that are logical and clear, we tend to make mistakes.

What does Spinoza mean by the term ‘Conatus’?

Conatus is meant to be a word that encapsulates the concept of striving to be human, and that for as long as we exist, the mind will continue to strive. In that falls the feelings of love, anger, despair – all these emotions are one’s humans use to strive to become a better version of themselves.