Spinoza and Critical Theory

Abstract

Substance monism, the view that there is only one fundamental substance, is infamous in the history of philosophy. It is a difficult view to defend with various ramifications. Nevertheless, it holds key benefits for social philosophy and critical theory. Spinoza’s approach in particular is well equipped to offer a social dimension to the critique of reason, establish immanent criteria for social criticism, and address the dialectic of immanence and transcendence. Ultimately, substance monism culminates in the view of society as a diverse but organic unity of interrelated parts called "social organicism."