Introduction to the core of Spinoza's writings and the diverse reactions they have elicited. Examines Spinoza's refusal of mind-body dualism, as well as a transcendent god or ideal as a way of understanding Spinoza's concepts and ideas. Only one of the following may be counted: Core Texts and Ideas 321F, European Studies 346 (Topic 21), 347 (Topic: Spinoza and Modernity), History 362P, Jewish Studies 364 (Topic 9), Philosophy 354 (Topic 7), Religious Studies 357 (Topic 8), 357M. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.