Spinoza: A Complete Guide to Life

Hey dear friends :)

For this event, we will discuss about ideas from Spinoza - a Dutch philosopher in the 17th century, based on a documentary -- 'Spinoza: A Complete Guide to Life'. It's suggested to watch this documentary before the event, since we will discuss topics based on that video. According to Spinoza, the key to perfection/happiness is understanding, and being is one. There are some similarities between Spinoza's philosophy and Buddhism. After the discussion, we can talk a walk if you like.

The discussion will cover following topics/questions, and I will add more questions before the event. Welcome to bring your questions and thoughts to the discussion!

1. Is reason the way to be free?
2. When do you get angry? Does understanding help to overcome anger?
3. Are we really able to understand everything with reason?
4. What's the similarity and difference between Spinoza's philosophy and Buddhism?

Strategies may help the discussion:
1.Please try to answer the question or ask a more fundamental one, rather than substitute with something else.
2.Please state your point first then support it by examples/explanations. We try to stick to the main topic, if you have many ideas/examples we can talk after the event :)
3.We try to let people finish the statements. However, if you talk too long without clear main points, we will intervene.
!!! You are kindly asked to sign up for events, or at least let hosts know before you come. You will be kicked out from the group after 3 times attending without registration.

!!! Please be careful that we will discuss in English :)

A reminder: Due to the capacity of our group, we will select sincere and interesting answers if there are too many people.

More about Philosophy Salon in Hamburg:

Hi! I am always curious about this world and want to figure everything out. What about you? Are you interested in philosophy, psychology, literature, sociology, history, or politics……? We can talk about everything you are into! Our Philosophy Salon Hamburg aims to provide a platform for inspiring, interesting conversation and discussion among interesting people. Since our salon is initiated to have deep conversation and discussion on some topics, we have limited seats for each event. Welcome to join us!