Ethics is a philosophical book written by Baruch Spinoza that best summarizes his work as a philosopher. The book is overtly ambitious as it strives to question and provide a definite thought on the universe and the significant aspects that shape it like God. The book is split into five categories that feed off each category to give a well-thought-out philosophy on God, nature, origin, humanity, emotions, servitude, intellect, and liberty. Spinoza writes that rational thought can be broken down into three different things; confidence in our knowledge, assurance that the universe is controlled by the law of rationality, and the voice of reason that acts as a guide. He further states that all it takes is the tiniest leap of faith and surrender to the idea that every action has a purpose. Only a degree of belief in the world can provide humans with enough motivation and drive to push beyond your limits.
Despite the book being split into different sections to tackle different aspects, it follows a linear line that connects the entire thought as one singular unit. Spinoza argues that knowledge is discovered in three sequential stages. The lower stage knowledge is acquired through a sense of perception which holds little to no value because it lacks consistency and authenticity. The middle stage knowledge is discovered through scientific research. It’s considered rational and adequate. They are also more dependable. The final stage of knowledge is based on scientific intuition. This stage solely depends on the complete mastery of the lower and middle stages. This last stage brings about transcendence. The idea that humans can see and understand beyond the known realms of this world. An individual that possesses this level of knowledge views everything in the universe as a singular unit and every single thing adds up to the outcome that supersedes every system set by mankind.
It is by this rationality that Spinoza concludes that the universe is a product of itself. Through this book, he sets out to find what God is. He concludes that everything in the universe has a point of origin. This point of origin, he defines as God and since there’s no possibility where there are two points of origin, God is a substance that is uniquely determined by its self. Thus, the universe is a product of its own making. Spinoza further argues that if there is another form of God, then it’s within the already existing God or it’s fully dependent on it. Thus, it becomes an infinite cycle that keeps producing images of itself, never ceasing to stop. Spinoza deduces that man is incapable of fully understanding the whole universe, but they can find solace in realizing that we are not designed to comprehend beyond our physical and mental state. By realizing this, it makes them rise above it. He calls it a necessary outgrowth that as humans they must face and overcome.
