Kierkegaard's Relations to Hegel Reconsidered : Book Review

"Kierkegaard's Relations to Hegel Reconsidered" by Jon Stewart offers a thorough exploration of the philosophical connection between Søren Kierkegaard and Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel. Stewart delves deep into their works to provide a nuanced understanding of their points of agreement and disagreement. By reevaluating common assumptions about Kierkegaard's rejection of Hegel, Stewart sheds new light on their intellectual relationship.

The book begins by examining the origins of the prevailing belief that Kierkegaard was completely opposed to Hegel. Stewart argues that this oversimplified view fails to acknowledge the complexities of Kierkegaard's engagement with Hegelian ideas. He highlights key aspects of Hegelian philosophy, such as the dialectic and the concept of the absolute, which Kierkegaard both critiqued and incorporated into his own thinking.

Stewart meticulously analyzes Kierkegaard's early writings in relation to Hegel's philosophy, revealing the intricate interplay between the two thinkers. He demonstrates how Kierkegaard not only engaged with Hegelian terminology and concepts but also displayed a deep familiarity with Hegelian thought. By closely examining Kierkegaard's complex relationship with Hegelian ideas, Stewart offers a fresh perspective on their philosophical connection.

Throughout the book, Stewart draws on a wealth of scholarship on Kierkegaard and Hegel, providing a comprehensive overview of their respective philosophies. He engages with various interpretations and controversies surrounding their relationship, thoroughly examining primary sources and secondary literature. This approach ensures a well-rounded analysis, making the book a valuable resource for scholars and students alike.

In conclusion, "Kierkegaard's Relations to Hegel Reconsidered" challenges the conventional understanding that Kierkegaard completely rejected Hegelian philosophy. Jon Stewart's meticulous examination of their relationship reveals a more complex intellectual connection than previously believed. With its comprehensive analysis and interdisciplinary scholarship, this book enriches our understanding of both Kierkegaard and Hegel, making it an essential read for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of their philosophies.

What are readers saying?

Opinions on "Kierkegaard's Relations to Hegel Reconsidered" on Goodreads are divided, with readers providing a range of perspectives on the book. Some found it to be thought-provoking and insightful, while others felt that it lacked clarity and was difficult to understand.

Several reviewers appreciated the book's detailed analysis of the connection between Kierkegaard and Hegel, considering it a valuable resource for philosophy enthusiasts. They praised the author's ability to present complex ideas in a concise and accessible way, finding the book intellectually stimulating and appreciating its depth of knowledge.

However, some reviewers felt that the book was not suitable for casual readers or those unfamiliar with philosophical concepts. They found the content to be dense and challenging to comprehend, with a lack of clear explanations and examples hindering their understanding. The repetitive nature of certain points was also mentioned, making the reading experience feel laborious.

On the other hand, some readers valued the book for its contribution to the ongoing debate regarding the relationship between Kierkegaard and Hegel. They found the author's perspective and analysis to be well-researched and insightful, shedding new light on the topic. These readers saw the book as a valuable scholarly resource that deepened their understanding of Kierkegaard's work in relation to Hegelian philosophy.

Overall, "Kierkegaard's Relations to Hegel Reconsidered" received positive feedback from philosophy scholars and those familiar with the subject matter. However, it was considered challenging and inaccessible by other readers. Although the book was admired for its analytical depth, it was criticized for its difficulty and lack of clarity. As a result, it is recommended more for academic readers and individuals with a strong interest in philosophy.

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