<p>In recent decades, biologists have shown great interest in Spinoza’s philosophy. However, discussions of Johannes Peter Müller’s (1801–1858) work are notably absent from their publications. This is striking given that the ‘father of contemporary physiology’ frequently quotes Spinoza at various stages of his impressive career. Similarly, it is remarkable that Spinoza (1632–1677) is completely absent in the most important biographies of J.P. Müller. This paper analyzes precisely where and when the influential professor at the University of Berlin mentions Spinoza. It explores several historical reasons why Müller was inspired by the Dutch philosopher rather than by other early modern thinkers. The paper argues that, beyond historical reasons, ontological, epistemological, and methodological factors also played significant roles.</p>

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

The Physiologist Johannes Peter Müller and the Philosopher Spinoza: An Underestimated Relation

  • Filip Adolf Buyse

摘要

In recent decades, biologists have shown great interest in Spinoza’s philosophy. However, discussions of Johannes Peter Müller’s (1801–1858) work are notably absent from their publications. This is striking given that the ‘father of contemporary physiology’ frequently quotes Spinoza at various stages of his impressive career. Similarly, it is remarkable that Spinoza (1632–1677) is completely absent in the most important biographies of J.P. Müller. This paper analyzes precisely where and when the influential professor at the University of Berlin mentions Spinoza. It explores several historical reasons why Müller was inspired by the Dutch philosopher rather than by other early modern thinkers. The paper argues that, beyond historical reasons, ontological, epistemological, and methodological factors also played significant roles.