Please choose one of the eight definitions or one of the seven axioms at the
beginning of the Ethics. Point out some way in which the axiom or definition is
odd or surprising — i.e., a way in which someone might argue that the
definition or axiom in question should be corrected — and explain briefly why
Spinoza would not be able to prove one of his key conclusions (either
Prop. 11 or Prop. 14) unless this definition or axiom were put the way it
is. (Note that the axiom or definition need not appear directly in the
proof of the proposition in question; it might be in the proof of one of
the earlier propositions. If so you need to explain both how Spinoza’s
version is necessary for the proof of the earlier proposition, and how that
earlier proposition is necessary for the proof of Prop. 11 or 14.) Finally,
suggest briefly how Spinoza might defend his version of the axiom or
definition.
Needless to say, this should be your own original work. You probably should
not need to use external sources for this assignment, but, if you do, you must cite
them. If you have any questions about what plagiarism is or how to avoid it,
you can ask me, or consult the resources listed on the Library website.
For possible consequences of plagiarism, see the Academic Misconduct
Policy.
AI policy: I encourage the use of AI assistance with proper caution
(i.e., keeping in mind that current AI is often wrong). You may use AI
assistance basically in any way that would not constitute cheating if you
used a human for the same thing. Similarly, you should cite the AI in
cases where you would cite a human. If in doubt, feel free to ask me for
clarification.
Note that, as with the first assignment, this is not a full scale paper — you
need not, and should not, write an introduction and conclusion, summarize other
parts of the Ethics, etc.
You can find answers to some commonly asked questions about my
assignments and grading in my FAQ.
