Definition

Proper noun A German philosopher (1770–1831), Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, known for developing a comprehensive philosophical system based on the concept of dialectical reasoning, where contradictions are resolved to reach higher truths. His ideas profoundly influenced later philosophy, including Marxism.

Usage

The word "Hegel" is used as a proper noun to refer to the philosopher himself, his body of work, or his specific philosophical ideas. * Hegel is a central figure in German Idealism. * The philosophy of Hegel can be challenging for new students. * She is writing her thesis on Hegel's Phenomenology of Spirit.

Advanced Usage

• Hegelian (adjective): Pertaining to Hegel or his philosophy.
  • The professor presented a Hegelian analysis of historical progress.
• Hegelian (noun): A follower or scholar of Hegel's philosophy.
  • The debate was between a Kantian and a Hegelian.
• Hegelian dialectic: Refers specifically to Hegel's triadic method of logical argument (thesis, antithesis, synthesis) used to understand the process of historical and conceptual development.
  • The concept of the Hegelian dialectic was adapted by Marx for his materialist theory.

Variants and Related Words

• Hegelianism (noun): The philosophical system or principles of Hegel.
  • Hegelianism had a significant impact on 19th-century thought.

Synonyms

• The philosopher Hegel: (There are no direct synonyms for a proper name, but he can be described as) a German Idealist philosopher.

Related Terms and Concepts

• Dialectic: The core methodological concept in Hegel's work.
• Absolute Idealism: The name often given to Hegel's philosophical system.
• Marx: Karl Marx, who adapted Hegel's dialectical method into dialectical materialism.

Noun

1. German philosopher whose three stage process of dialectical reasoning was adopted by Karl Marx (1770-1831)