Scott Alexander examines the rise and fall of Hegel's philosophical influence, contrasting his 19th-century dominance with modern dismissals, and considers the implications for philosophy and Hegel's lasting impact on modern thought.
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This post explores the phenomenon of Hegel's philosophy, its historical dominance, and subsequent fall from grace. Scott Alexander discusses how Hegel was incredibly influential throughout the 19th century, dominating philosophical thought in Germany, England, and America. However, modern opinions of Hegel are often dismissive, with many philosophers and thinkers criticizing his work as obscure and nonsensical. The post then reflects on what this dramatic shift in perception might mean for philosophy and intellectual progress. It concludes by considering how Hegelian ideas might still influence modern thought, particularly in concepts of human progress and New Age philosophies.
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