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Single Idea 21783

[from 'The Philosophy of History' by Georg W.F.Hegel, in 25. Social Practice / A. Freedoms / 1. Slavery ]

Full Idea

Because slavery exists in states, it is a phase of advance from the merely isolated sensual existence - a phase of education - a mode of becoming participant in a higher morality and the culture connected with it.

Gist of Idea

State slavery is a phase of education, moving towards a full culture

Source

Georg W.F.Hegel (The Philosophy of History [1840], p.98), quoted by Stephen Houlgate - An Introduction to Hegel 08 'Rights'

Book Reference

Houlgate,Stephen: 'An Introduction to Hegel' [Blackwell 2005], p.187


A Reaction

[He adds that slavery should be removed slowly, not suddenly] A nicely provocative thought. Is it better to participate in something grand (like pyramid building) as a slave, or drift in dull isolation? How long should this 'phase' last?

Related Idea

Idea 12784 Allow no more miracles than are necessary [Leibniz]