INTRODUCTION.

THE EDITOR TO THE READER.

The theological and political Treatise (Tractatus Theologico-politicus original: "Tractatus Theologico-politicus" — Latin for "Theological-Political Treatise") of Benedict de Spinoza, now presented to the English reader, is the most generally interesting of the works of this celebrated writer. We say celebrated, because there is no person of any culture who has not heard of Spinoza, though it must be admitted that few know more of the man than his name.

Nevertheless, Spinoza left his mark on the path of human progress, and no history of Philosophy would be complete without a chapter devoted to the consideration of his metaphysical Metaphysics: the branch of philosophy dealing with the fundamental nature of reality, including the relationship between mind and matter, substance, and cause. views and conclusions.

The common people original: "The vulgar", however, and their ministers—the theologians—have until now been the primary judges in matters concerning the mysteries of God, the soul, and the religious and moral nature of humanity. Spinoza was opposed to these theologians and felt contempt for common prejudices. Having no reverence for antiquity for its own sake and no respect for established tradition original: "prescription", he dared to think independently. Above all, because he dared to give voice to his thoughts, he has been denounced as a dangerous person and labeled an atheist as a matter of course. His writings were banned original: "proscribed", and his truly spotless reputation has been vilified and condemned.