Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel
Pioneering German Idealist philosopher whose system centered on Absolute Spirit (Geist).
Chronology: 1770-08-27 – 1831-11-14
Origins & Early Life
Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel (27 August 1770 – 14 November 1831) was a German philosopher and a major figure in the tradition of German idealism. His influence on Western philosophy extends across a wide range of topics—from metaphysical issues in epistemology and ontology, to political philosophy, to philosophy of art and philosophy of religion. Hegel was born in Stuttgart. His life spanned the transitional period between the Enlightenment and the Romantic movement.
Pivotal Works & Achievements
His thought was shaped by the French Revolution and the Napoleonic wars, events which he interpreted from a philosophical perspective. His academic career culminated in his appointment to the chair of philosophy at the University of Berlin, where he remained a prominent intellectual figure until his death. Throughout his work, Hegel strove to correct what he argued were untenable dualisms common in modern philosophy. His principal achievement was the development of a comprehensive philosophical system, often termed absolute idealism, to account for reality as a unified whole. Central to this system is the concept of "spirit" (Geist), which Hegel presented as humankind coming to know itself through a historical process...
Enduring Legacy & Impact
The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.
Source: Wikipedia