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Spinoza's Strong Opening Claim
- Spinoza initially declares broad freedom: "every man may think as he pleases and say what he thinks."
- This statement appears to endorse near-absolute freedom of thought and expression in a free commonwealth.
Freedom With Political Limits
- Spinoza qualifies freedom by warning unreserved expression could cause disastrous consequences for the state.
- He permits speech that expresses opinion through rational conviction but forbids deceitful, angry, or action-inciting speech.
Argue, But Keep Obeying
- Spinoza allows arguing for repeal of unjust laws so long as one obeys existing laws while arguing.
- He praises citizens who advocate change through words without violating current legal commands.