• Spinoza was the father of the Enlightenment, and developed highly influential philosophical theories
• Roger Scruton shows the relevence of Spinoza's thought to today's intellectual preoccupations
• The only short introduction aimed at non-specialists, written by a specialist, that is accessible and not overwhelming
• Illustrated, with updated bibliography

Readership: Anyone interested in Spinoza's philosophy, including students of the tradition of Western philosophy, Western intellectual history, and Jewish philosophical thought. Students and general readers of the Englightenment, and the changes and thinkers in European history at the end of the medieval period.

Roger Scruton, former Lecturer in Philosophy, Birckbeck College, University of London

Review(s) from previous edition

"'an interesting and provocative guide' - Christian Science Monitor

"'His exposition is beautifully lucid.'" - Expository Times

Preface
1: Life and Character
2: Background
3: God
4: Man
5: Freedom
6: The Body Politic
7: Spinoza's Legacy
Glossary
Further Reading
Index