Spinoza on Being: An Analogical Framework

Abstract

<p>The aim of this thesis is to demonstrate that Spinoza's ontological views of Being (<i>ens</i>) constructs an analogical framework that both his broader metaphysical and epistemological views can be situated within. This work clearly demonstrates that Spinozian formal Being (<i>esse</i>) establishes the required common ground on which the analogy of Being is exercised, not only in logic, but also<i> in re</i>. In this way, Spinoza's analogy of Being bridges the infinite - finite gulf between God and creatures that was alluded to by medieval thinkers, such as, St. Thomas Aquinas, Henry of Ghent, John Duns Scotus and Francisco Suárez. Whilst this thesis ultimately argues that Spinoza rejects the univocity of Being this work pushes the boundaries of the notion of univocity in Spinoza's thought in order to demonstrate that although real Beings (<i>entia reali</i>) are expressions of God's essence, Being (<i>ens</i>), cannot be said in the same way of all real Beings (<i>entia</i>). This work aims to present an original ontological presentation of Spinozian thought through a close analysis of his notion of Being that distinguishes between <i>ens</i> and <i>esse</i>. Therefore presenting an alternative and complementary reading to the more common metaphysical reading that distinguishes between substance and modes. The work suggests that a greater comprehension of Spinoza's doctrine of substance monism can be achieved when prefaced with a reading of his ontological views that forge an analogical framework of Being.</p>