
Embrace The Void EV - 188 Deleuze and Spinoza with Gil Morejon
Apr 16, 2021
Gil Morejon, an adjunct at DePaul and co-host of the What's Left of Philosophy Podcast, dives deep into the philosophies of Deleuze and Spinoza. He critiques Freudian psychoanalysis and explores its implications in modern contexts. The discussion highlights Spinoza's radical ideas and how they challenge conventional beliefs about determinism and personal agency. They tackle the complexities of power dynamics in society and reflect on morality, reality, and consciousness, offering a refreshing take on how philosophy intersects with everyday life.
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Freedom Through Understanding Determinism
- For Spinoza, freedom is understanding how and why we are determined rather than spontaneous will.
- Consciousness doesn't reveal full causes; free will springs from our ignorance of determinism.
Spinoza’s God and Exile
- Spinoza sees God as nature itself, non-personal and fully determined.
- His excommunication was due to radical ideas challenging community norms, reflecting his resolve.
Cheerful Determinism's Empathy
- Spinoza’s cheerful determinism sees human actions as natural and understandable, reducing hatred.
- Understanding others as determined beings fosters empathy and diminishes resentment.





