Single Idea 22795

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

Full Idea

The best way for humans to achieve respect for the state as that whole of which they are branches is through philosophical insight into its essence.

Gist of Idea

People can achieve respect for their state by insight into its essence

Source

Georg W.F.Hegel (Elements of the Philosophy of Right [1821], 270 add)

Book Reference

Hegel,Georg W.F.: 'Elements of the Philosophy of Right', ed/tr. Wood,Allen W. [CUP 1991], p.303


A Reaction

Although Hegel on the state can be quite alarming, I rather approve of this Aristotelian thought. States do not, of course, have ready made essences awaiting the insights of philosophers, but discussion can converge on a concept of what the state is.