Single Idea 19944

[catalogued under 25. Social Practice / A. Freedoms / 2. Freedom of belief]

Full Idea

If liberty of thought is suppressed ...this would undemine the trust which is the first essential of a state; detestable flattery and deceit would flourish, giving rise to intrigues and every sort of honest behaviour.

Gist of Idea

Without liberty of thought there is no trust in the state, and corruption follows

Source

Baruch de Spinoza (Tractatus Theologico-Politicus [1670], 20.11)

Book Reference

Spinoza,Benedict de: 'Theological-Political Treatise', ed/tr. Israel,Jonathan [CUP 2007], p.255


A Reaction

Spinoza specifically defends philosophy, as the epitome of freedom of thought.