Spinoza and Relational Autonomy

Abstract

Integrates Spinoza’s thought into the contemporary debate on interpersonal relationships and individual autonomy 13 new essays explore Spinoza’s relational account of autonomy and individuality Integrates different philosophical approaches and styles, both from analytic and continental traditions Bridges the gap between history of philosophy and contemporary debates Contributes to debates across a number of fields, including Spinoza studies, contemporary political philosophy and ethics, feminist philosophy, and the philosophy of action The question of how to understand autonomy has emerged as a critical issue in contemporary political philosophy. Feminists and others argue that autonomy cannot be adequately conceived without taking into consideration the ways in which it is shaped by our relationships with others. This collection of 13 new essays shows what Baruch Spinoza can add to our understanding of the relational nature of autonomy. By offering a relational understanding of the nature of individuals centred on the role played by emotions, Spinoza offers not only historical roots for contemporary debates but also broadens the current discussion. At the same time, reading Spinoza as a theorist of relational autonomy underscores the consistency of his overall metaphysical, ethical and political project, which has been clouded by the standard rationalist interpretation of his works. Contributors Aurelia Armstrong , University of Queensland Keith Green , East Tennessee State University Matthew Kisner , University of South Carolina Martin Lenz , University of Groningen Catriona Mackenzie , Macquarie University Heidi M. Ravven , Hamilton College Ursula Renz , Alpen-Adria-University-Klagenfurt Andrea Sangiacomo , University of Groningen Justin Steinberg , CUNY Ericka Tucker , Marquette University Caroline Williams , Queen Mary University of London