Donna Grace Avome Ndoutoume
Ens Lyon, IHRIM (nolendonna2018@gmail.com; ORCID: 0009-0001-7859-1491).
“Don’t laugh, don’t judge, don’t hate but understand”: Spinoza and the question of differences today.
Abstract: To study identity today is also to reflect on the question of differences, and in particular on how others view the multiple forms of dissimilarity that are continually being constructed in existence. Indeed, the singularization of conatus is not based solely on bodily determinations (visible bodily differences) or the nature of desires, affects, experiences, existing comforts and inconveniences and so on. It’s also shaped by all the other realities that contribute to a man’s singularity: belonging (ethnic, religious, civilizational), gender preference, etc. the nature of his life, the nature of his life. However, we seem to notice that difference, or the fact of distinguishing oneself by any modality, has become the subject or cause of mockery and judgment. This leads us to take a fresh look at Spinozist thought, especially the assertion: “do not laugh, do not judge, but understand”. The aim is not to pull the wool over Spinoza’s eyes by attributing to him words or thoughts that are not his own, but this statement does seem to constitute a voice for resolving the problem of differences today. In questioning terms, what value and impact can this formula have in the face of the movement of identity discord?
Keywords: Complexion; Conatus; Identity; Knowledge; Spinoza.