Single Idea 22777

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / B. Nature of a State / 4. Citizenship]

Full Idea

The individual person is a subordinate entity who must dedicate himself to the ethical whole. Consequently, if the state demands his life, the individual must surrender it.

Gist of Idea

Individuals must dedicate themselves to the ethical whole, and give their lives when asked

Source

Georg W.F.Hegel (Elements of the Philosophy of Right [1821], 070 add)

Book Reference

Hegel,Georg W.F.: 'Elements of the Philosophy of Right', ed/tr. Wood,Allen W. [CUP 1991], p.102


A Reaction

The obvious problem is a war which is perceived to be unjust. Vietnam draft dodgers. We should always consider the common good, but 'dedicate himself to the ethical whole'? It depends whether the ethical whole is dedicated to us.