Abstract

Introduces the problem of freedom and community in Hegel's thought. Hegel claims that a particular form of community membership is necessary for individual freedom, but this leads to several puzzles. The chapter contrasts and criticizes several standard interpretations of Hegel's theory of freedom and sketches the alternative interpretation to be advanced in the book. It discusses Hegel's views on the connections between freedom, conventionalism, history, and spirit, and it introduces the ‘civic humanist’ aspect of his thought.