(Opinion)
It is important to understand from the start that the Hegelian Dialectic is not in and of itself "evil" or "good", it simply is what it is, a philosophical concept and it is in how this concept is used by people (the cause) that determines whether it produces "good" or "bad" outcomes (the effect). This concept also surpasses Hegel and encompasses the thoughts and teachings of many great philosophers such as Plato, Immanuel Kant and others with their own theories and context added of course but the most common name attached to this concept is Hegel for research purposes. Moving forward we will focus on the concept, not the people connected to it. I will of course as always provide links for you to peruse at your leisure.
(Remember, though good and evil are omnipotent forces of positive and negative only people can commit acts of good or evil. Using this logical foundation to build our critical thinking framework on is paramount to our being able to truly understand not only the concept of good and evil but how it manifests into the physical world.)
So, what is it?
The "Hegelian dialectic" extends beyond a mere philosophical notion; it serves as a tool for understanding societal transformation and crafting political narratives. Conceived by German philosopher Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel in the early 19th century, this framework is vital for examining the interplay of ideas and the potential for their manipulation. In this scribble I explore the origins of the Hegelian dialectic, its ties to authoritarianism, and significant historical examples of its misuse.
Apologies for the quality of this first video; it is old, which is why I selected it. It underscores the fact that we have faced similar challenges before, overcome them, and thus we already know how to address them. It boils down to those who are unaware listening to those who are informed. Yet, the issue seems to be that they don't, haven't, and never will listen. "They" represent the negative to our positive, and one cannot exist without the other. This reality is what makes the Hegelian Dialectic function to begin with. Regardless of the subject, there will always be dissenters, and this persistent divide is where discord is planted and takes root.
This is our context based on Hegel's 3 phases- 1) Create the problem- Thesis 2) Create opposition to the problem- Antithesis 3) Become the only available solution to the problem- Synthesis
Hegel first introduced this dialectical method in his 1807 work "Phenomenology of Spirit" and fleshed it out in "Science of Logic" (1812-1813). This approach not only helps to explain contradictions in thought but also illustrates how changes in ideas can drive progress in society. For example, in the political sphere, a controversial policy (thesis) might face widespread opposition (antithesis), and through debate and negotiation, a compromise or new approach (synthesis) emerges that reflects societal growth.
On the other hand, while the Hegelian dialectic can promote progress and understanding, it has also been exploited by authoritarian leaders. These regimes manipulate the framework to create narratives that justify their actions and strengthen their power.
For instance,
Adolf Hitler’s regime twisted the dialectic by defining an Aryan race (thesis) while depicting Jews and other minorities as threats (antithesis). This ultimately led to the violent “synthesis” of a so-called racially pure state, justified through brutal laws and genocide. Statistics reveal the horrifying scale of this manipulation: approximately six million Jews were killed during the Holocaust, illustrating the tragic consequences of applying dialectical reasoning to justify hate and division.
Cultural Revolution in China: Under Mao Zedong, societal upheaval was framed as a necessary effort to eradicate bourgeois elements (thesis) while promoting an ideal socialist society (antithesis). The violence that erupted was rationalized as progress, leading to the persecution of millions, including intellectuals and perceived dissenters. It is estimated that as many as 1.5 million people died as a result of the associated violence and chaos. By claiming these actions were necessary for achieving true communism, he fostered an environment of fear and chaos, leading to an estimated one million deaths and untold suffering.
Stalin's Soviet Union: During Stalin's purges, the regime labeled its enemies (thesis) as counterrevolutionaries threatening the socialist state (antithesis). This portrayal justified brutal measures, including forced labor camps, resulting in the deaths of millions (synthesis). Historians estimate that around 20 million people died during the Great Purge, underscoring the consequences of this manipulation.
The Hegelian dialectic serves as a complex yet invaluable tool for understanding societal change. However, its potential for manipulation by authoritarian regimes is alarming. Throughout history, leaders have misused this philosophical method to not only justify their actions but also to shape public perception and maintain power.
This exploration reveals that the implications of the Hegelian dialectic extend beyond theoretical debates. They infiltrate the very fabric of governance, impacting freedom and individual rights. Recognizing its roots and vulnerabilities helps society stay vigilant against its distortion.
By reflecting on the historical context and evaluating its current implications, we can foster genuine dialogue and encourage a more informed citizenry, less susceptible to manipulation. Understanding these philosophical undercurrents is essential for advocating against authoritarian message control and supporting honest discourse in our ever-evolving political as well as cultural landscapes.
As my favorite saying for the last few years says, "In the age of information ignorance is a choice!" Maybe it is time we start making a different one, what have we got to lose?
Something to think about, until next time. ~Ghost
Connective Tissue
I have spoken a lot about this conflict in my scribbles.
Like I said, Hegel wrote for people like himself meaning academics and intellectuals, the elites.
Abstract
Can't talk about Hegel without also talking about Schopenhauer. He hated the man!
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