Single Idea 15614

[catalogued under 26. Natural Theory / C. Causation / 1. Causation]

Full Idea

When finite things are grasped according to the determinations of cause and effect they are known in their finitude. But objects of reason cannot be determined through such finite predicates, and the attempt to do this was the defect of older metaphysics.

Gist of Idea

Old metaphysics tried to grasp eternal truths through causal events, which is impossible

Source

Georg W.F.Hegel (Logic (Encyclopedia I) [1817], §28 Add)

Book Reference

Hegel,Georg W.F.: 'The Hegel Reader', ed/tr. Houlgate,Stephen [Blackwell 1998], p.145


A Reaction

This sounds the launching point for a grand philosophical system which makes scientifically inclined philosophers feel very nervous indeed. I think I prefer the old (pre-Kantian) metaphysics.