O que é isto - a felicidade? Uma perspectiva Spinozana

Abstract

This study aims to understand the properties that define happiness according to Spinoza. Human experience of affections is central to achieving happiness. However, enjoying happiness is a process that is based on the action of becoming active as adequate knowledge is produced. The three kind of knowledge, namely: the first: imaginative, which is in the realm of confused and mutilated ideas; the second: rational, which refers to necessary, non-contingent knowledge; and, the third: intuitive science, which is in the realm of adequate ideas, that is, true knowledge. This differentiation is fundamental on the path that Spinoza calls “amendment of the intellect”, since we are closer to happiness as we understand things through the second and the third kinds. The entire way consists of understanding how confused and mutilated ideas produce a detachment from adequate knowledge of God, of things and of oneself (human being), and how the second, and especially the third kind, is essential for enjoyment of happiness. Thus, understanding this path and what is grounded on it is essential to understanding the properties that define happiness according to Spinoza.