Can the understanding of science be the ultimate way to connect to God? Baruch Spinoza's attempt to create an ethical system based on science and a foundational connection to religion is the focus of a short philosophy video.

Concepts

philosophers, judaism, world religions

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Include The Ethics in a discussion about philosophy, world religions, or the connection between science and spirituality
• Have high schoolers write an argument essay about their perception of Spinoza's writing

Classroom Considerations

• Addresses key aspects of Judeo-Christian beliefs analytically, as well as the negative reaction of Spinoza's beliefs by the Jewish community
• Claims that The Ethics is more substantive than the Bible
• Comment section is open to the public, and is full of opinions about organized religion

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Helpful animation and narration moves the main idea along
• Learners can relate to the attempt to use science and religion to explain one's world

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2 RH.9-10.2 RH.11-12.2