# Spinoza — The Genealogy of Morals character guide

> Spinoza in The Genealogy of Morals by Friedrich Nietzsche.

**Role:** minor

**First appearance:** 0011-first-essay

## Who they are

Rationalist philosopher whose concept of self-preservation is contrasted with ascetic denial.

## In the story

### [Chapter 5](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_genealogy_of_morals_se/chapters/5)

Mentioned as a philosopher who, despite differences, shared contempt for pity.

### [Chapter 6: The Cradle of Guilt and the Festive Nature of Cruelty](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_genealogy_of_morals_se/chapters/6)

Referenced for the concept of 'sympathia malevolens' (disinterested malice) as a normal human characteristic.

### [Chapter 15](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_genealogy_of_morals_se/chapters/15)

Nietzsche discusses Spinoza's relegation of good and evil to imagination and his interpretation of the bad conscience as a sadness over unexpected events.

### [Chapter 7](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_genealogy_of_morals_se/chapters/7)

Listed among unmarried philosophers who exemplify the ascetic ideal.

## Links

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- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_genealogy_of_morals_se
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