Full Idea
Pleasure is only bad in so far as it hinders a man's capability for action.
Gist of Idea
Pleasure is only bad in so far as it hinders a man's capability for action
Source
Baruch de Spinoza (The Ethics [1675], IV Pr 59)
Book Reference
Spinoza,Benedict de: 'Ethics, Improvement of Understanding, Letters', ed/tr. Elwes,R [Dover 1955], p.227
A Reaction
This seems to be the incipient epicureanism found in enlightenment figures who are drifting towards atheism (of which his contemporaries accused Spinoza). Sadism? Grief is good pain. I'm too happy to be cruel.