“I am currently composing a treatise on the way in which I view Scripture, and my reasons for undertaking it are the following: 1° The prejudices of theologians; I know in fact that it is these prejudices which are especially opposed to men being able to apply their minds to philosophy; I therefore consider it useful to expose these prejudices and to rid thoughtful minds of them. 2° The opinion that the vulgar have of me who never cease to accuse me of atheism; I see myself obliged to fight it as much as I can. 3° The freedom to philosophize and express our feelings; I wish to establish it by all means […]. » Letter from Spinoza to Oldenburg, 1665.