Spinoza: Scholarship Since 2000

abstract: In this essay, I highlight some of the most auspicious and impressive developments in Spinoza research since 2000. This is at best a partial survey, in both senses of the term. First, it is fairly subjective, reflecting my own interests and preferences. Second, given how much has been published on Spinoza in the past quarter century, there are many items that warrant mention that have not been included. Moreover, I limit my discussion to the literature in languages with which I feel safe in assuming most readers of this journal are familiar. I also offer a new, more accurate translation of the herem (ban) issued against Spinoza, to replace the variety of translations that have circulated for years.