OBJECTIVES OF THE SPINOZALENS

Ethics and morality are matters that everyone deals with. Everyday we make decisions in which our ideas regarding good and evil play a part. Sometimes we do this without giving it a thought and sometimes the circumstances force us to critically reflect on our values and standards. Why do we consider some things just, honourable or good while others meet with our disapproval?

The critical reflection on our actions and the willingness to accept accountability can be seen as responsiblility. As such, responsibility is one of the conditions/criteria/premises of our morality. When everyone uses their own valuesystem as the basic principle of their actions, the identity and unity of a society are lost.

This thought is the starting point for the ideas of the Spinozalens. The objective of the award is to stimulate debate about ethics and society. The prize was first awarded in 1999 and is sponsored by the Internationale Spinozaprijs Foundation.

Those who are considered are scientists, philosophers and writers who have gained their reputation in the research of the ethical principles of world society.

The prize consists of a sculpture and the sum of 10 thousand euro. For this occasion, a special publication, giving an introduction to the work of the laureate is also presented.