Spinoza and The Federal Polity

George M. Gross

Publius: The Journal of Federalism, vol. 26, issue 1, 117-136

Abstract: In his Political Treatise, Benedict de Spinoza (1632-1677) describes a frame of government for a federal polity whose members are neither “confederated” nor “united” but are “mutually associated and united.” Spinoza regards the federal polity as the preferred mode of republican government. His Political Treatise marks the turn in political science from the classic polis to the extended republic of modern times. His argument converges with and illuminates that of The Federalist in several respects. This article discusses Spinoza's contributions to the federal idea, and shows the importance of federalism for understanding Spinoza. Copyright , Oxford University Press.

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