Hegel - Lecciones sobre la Filosofía de la Historia Universal (6/6)

Introduction to Hegel's Philosophy of History

Overview of the Series

• Amílcar Paris Mandoki introduces the final capsule of his series on Hegel's philosophy of history, focusing on the concluding chapter of the general introduction.

The Course of Universal History

• The third chapter discusses the course of universal history, noting that it is a compilation of Hegel's class notes and those from his students. Mandoki plans to present this content in a different order than found in the book.

Beginning of History According to Hegel

• Hegel critiques other political philosophies that start with a state of nature, referencing Locke’s theory as hypothetical and unfounded historically. He argues that true history begins with the State, where rationality emerges.

• Before the establishment of states, there is no objective history; only prehistory exists, which includes tribal growth but lacks narrative depth.

The Concept of Progress in History

Variations in Nature vs. Humanity

• In contrast to inorganic nature, which experiences circular variation without progress, human history involves real variations leading towards improvement and perfection driven by an internal impulse for perfectibility.

• This pursuit is characterized as an ongoing struggle for freedom and self-realization within consciousness, where setbacks are seen as external accidents rather than intrinsic failures.

Phases of Universal Spirit

First Phase: Infancy

• The initial phase represents childhood or infancy characterized by sensory experiences; freedom is perceived externally rather than internally understood. This stage reflects a patriarchal constitution where only one individual holds freedom while others do not. Hegel associates this phase with Eastern Asian states.

Second Phase: Youth

• Transitioning into youth signifies a shift from sensation to general representations; individuals seek independence but still view freedom as limited to certain people rather than universally applicable. Two sub-phases are identified:

• Greek Culture: Freedom linked to natural substance—some are free by nature while others are enslaved.

• Roman Culture: Freedom achieved through service to the state rather than inherent rights.

Third Phase: Adulthood

• The most developed phase according to Hegel is adulthood, where concepts become essentialized and universal freedom is recognized; individuals understand their liberty as inherent simply by being human.

Understanding Hegel's Concept of Freedom and History

The Nature of Freedom in German States

• Hegel discusses the concept of freedom as a long historical process, suggesting that while German states are free in potential, they may not be fully actualized.

• He emphasizes that the essence of a people lies in their conception of freedom, warning against superficial comparisons that overlook this fundamental aspect.

Historical Progress and Cultural Identity

• Each historical phase is characterized by the spirit of its people, which influences their religion, laws, morality, customs, science, art, and industry.

• The progress sought is linked to formal culture evolving alongside the people's understanding of freedom; cultural expressions (like art or music) reflect deeper ideas rather than mere evolution.

Universal Spirit and Moral Organization

• Progress is observed in what Hegel terms the "universal spirit," where a people’s actions align with moral and political organization based on universal principles.

• A society must understand its rights and religious beliefs to engage meaningfully with its history; this understanding is exemplified through Greek philosophers who encapsulate Greek life.

Consequences of Internal Division

• When individuals detach from state laws without recognizing universal principles, it leads to internal division within the state.

• This division results in societal destruction but also paves the way for new principles that incorporate past lessons into a more universal framework.

The Dialectical Process and End of History

• Hegel posits that history does not repeat itself; each new universal people carries forward elements from previous ones but presents them differently.

• The ultimate goal is for humanity to achieve sanctification through understanding absolute truth; this involves reconciling internal contradictions within limited spirits.

Reflection on Historical Consciousness

• Hegel asserts that true existence transcends time—what was once potential becomes present reality.

• He questions whether we have reached the end of history during his time or ours. His view suggests an ongoing dialectical process where consciousness evolves continuously.

Moving Beyond Hegelian Thought

• To truly embrace Hegelian philosophy requires surpassing his ideas dialectically—not discarding them but integrating them into a broader consciousness.