Spinoza’s Theoretical-Political Treatise
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Reading and Writing Workshop

Baruch Spinoza’s Theological-Political Treatise
Overview
This workshop explores Spinoza’s Theological-Political Treatise through a series of guided reading and writing sessions that engage students in close reading, philosophical analysis, and argumentative writing. Each session includes a primary text, thematic focus, writing activity, and public domain source.

Session 1: Introduction to Spinoza and His Times
Focus: Historical and intellectual context of 17th-century Europe
Reading:
Session 2: Freedom of Thought and Expression
Focus: Spinoza’s argument for freedom of thought in a rational society
Reading:
Session 3: Scripture and Interpretation
Focus: Spinoza’s approach to reading and interpreting the Bible
Reading:
Session 4: Religion and the State
Focus: The relationship between organized religion and civil authority
Reading:
Session 5: Prophecy and Miracles
Focus: Naturalism in Spinoza’s view of prophecy and miracles
Reading:
Session 6: Reason, Revelation, and Civil Peace
Focus: Reconciling philosophy and religion through reason
Reading:
Session 7: Final Project – Spinoza and the Foundations of Democracy
​Focus: Applying Spinoza’s ideas to modern political thought
Reading: Revisit key passages from the Treatise
Supplementary Reading:
  • John Locke, A Letter Concerning Toleration
    https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/6695
    Writing Activity: Research paper or presentation – How do Spinoza’s arguments lay groundwork for liberal democracy and secular governance?
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