Democratic Thought from Machiavelli to Spinoza

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Exploring the evolution of democratic thought, this work delves into the concept of the multitude as examined by Spinoza and his contemporaries. It traces influences from Machiavelli to the early 18th century, highlighting the multitude as both a political form and a reflection of societal diversity. The author argues that Spinoza significantly shaped modern democratic ideals, countering misconceptions propagated by his critics. Sonja Lavaert, an Associate Professor of Philosophy, draws on lesser-known sources to enrich this historical discourse.