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Single Idea 17202

[from 'The Ethics' by Baruch de Spinoza, in 20. Action / C. Motives for Action / 4. Responsibility for Actions ]

Full Idea

I say that we act when anything is done, either within us or without us, of which we are the adequate cause, that is to say, when from our nature anything follows which by that nature alone can be clearly and distinctly understood.

Gist of Idea

We are the source of an action if only our nature can explain the action

Source

Baruch de Spinoza (The Ethics [1675], III Def 2)

Book Reference

Spinoza,Benedict de: 'Ethics', ed/tr. White,WH/Stirling,AH [Wordsworth 2001], p.98


A Reaction

I like that one a lot. The point is to get a concept of responsibility that doesn't need free will, and to distinguish the thief from the kleptomaniac. Does kleptomania derive from a person's true nature? Essentialism in action.