Promoting Ethical Virtues as a Path to Divine Knowledge: The Interconnection of Religion and Ethics in Spinoza&#039;s Perspective

Fasihi, Hosein; Fazeli, Syyed Ahmad

Volume 17, Issue 1 (3-2024) IJMEHM 2024, 17(1): 1-13 | Back to browse issues page

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Fasihi H, Fazeli S A. Promoting Ethical Virtues as a Path to Divine Knowledge: The Interconnection of Religion and Ethics in Spinoza's Perspective. IJMEHM 2024; 17 (1) : 27
URL: http://ijme.tums.ac.ir/article-1-6749-en.html

Promoting Ethical Virtues as a Path to Divine Knowledge: The Interconnection of Religion and Ethics in Spinoza's Perspective

Hosein Fasihi ^*

¹, Syyed Ahmad Fazeli²

1- PhD Student in Ethics Philosophy, University of Qom, Qom, Iran
2- Associate Professor, Department of Ethics Philosophy, University of Qom, Qom, Iran

Abstract: (150 Views)

In the realm of philosophy, numerous thinkers have offered profound, and at times amazing, insights into the nature of existence. Among them, Spinoza stands out with his unique perspective, establishing a deep connection between ethics, religion, and the divine nature. Spinoza posits that religious texts, beyond their religious teachings, serve a motivational role in inspiring moral behavior. He locates the foundation of virtue within human nature and essence, arguing that the moral quality of actions is not inherent but is derived from God as the ultimate source of good and evil. Ultimately, adhering to the principle of universal necessity, Spinoza extends this concept to ethics, viewing it as an expression of divine nature. This perspective implies that morality and all human actions unfold within the framework of natural and divine necessity. An examination of Spinoza's views reveals a profound unity between humanity and the divine, characterized by a harmonious and interactive relationship between religion and ethics. Within Spinoza's philosophical system, these two categories are aligned, guiding individuals toward happiness and virtue. This innovative approach not only enriches our understanding of Spinoza's thought but also, by bridging religion, reason, and health, opens avenues for reconsidering medical ethics and spirituality in the contemporary world. This study, through a critical analysis of Spinoza's views, lays the groundwork for future investigations into moral philosophy, religion, and medical ethics, fostering a constructive dialogue between tradition and modernity.

Article number: 27

Keywords: Spinoza, Medical ethics, Philosophy of religion, Virtue ethics

Full-Text [PDF 500 kb] (45 Downloads)

Type of Study: Research | Subject: Ethics in Public Health
Received: 2024/06/19 | Accepted: 2024/11/18 | Published: 2024/03/20