Baruch Spinoza

"Laws which can be broken without any wrong to one's neighbor are a laughing-stock; and such laws, instead of restraining the appetites and lusts of mankind, serve rather to heighten them. Nitimur in vetitum semper, cupimusque negata [we always resist prohibitions, and yearn for what is denied us]."

35 likes

Source: Baruch Spinoza (1981). “Ethics”, p.221, Commodius Vicus

About the author

Baruch Spinoza

Baruch Spinoza

Philosopher, Rationalist

Baruch Spinoza was a 17th-century philosopher known for his work 'Ethics', which laid the groundwork for modern rationalism and a unique understanding of God and nature.

All quotes by Baruch Spinoza →

Same author

More quotes by Baruch Spinoza

See all →
Baruch Spinoza Philosopher, Rationalist

"The more you struggle to live, the less you live. Give up the notion that you must be sure of what you are doing. Instead, surrender to what is real within you, for that alone is sure....you are above everything distressing."

Read quote