MA Defence: Shirin Karimi, Philosophy

On the Rationality of Rebellion Against Tyranny: The Dynamics of Authority and Obedience in Spinoza

Shirin Karimi

Supervisor: Nabeel Hamid

ABSTRACT: In this thesis, I will explore Spinoza’s stance on revolution. I will begin by examining Spinoza’s understanding of the dynamics of authority and obedience, according to which, even in the civil state, right remains coextensive with actual power. I will then show how insurrectionary tendencies naturally arise from our striving natures under violent tyrannies. Next, engaging with Michael Della Rocca’s interpretation that all revolutions are wrong in the sense of being internally inconsistent actions, and considering Spinoza’s explanations of state formation in TTP and TP, I will argue that there may be circumstances in which overthrowing the sovereign and establishing a new state is rational—specifically, when the sovereign governs so badly and violently that its existence harms the multitude more than it benefits them. Yet, I will also highlight the inherent dangers that always accompany any rebellious attempt, rooted in our passionate natures. Finally, I will suggest an answer to the question of how revolutions could be evaluated as good and rational before their outcomes are fully known, arguing that Spinoza’s analysis of the affects of a multitude provides tools for assessing the tendencies of insurrectionary movements.

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