Fortitude

Abstract

Philosophical understanding, as Spinoza conceives of it, enhances our capacity to live together by generating what Spinoza calls fortitude, the power to act as our understanding dictates. The essay examines Spinoza’s distinctive account of fortitude as a combination of animositas and generositas that can only be effectively cultivated within the state. Fortitude, as Spinoza presents it, is expressed in its fullest form by people who use their rational understanding to resolve conflict and keep cooperative political exchange alive. Turning to our own political lives, the essay asks what fortitude might be for us, how it might help us to live together, and how contemporary citizens might nurture it.