Hegel wrote this classic as an introduction to a series of lectures on the "philosophy of history" — a novel concept in the early nineteenth century. With this work; he created the history of philosophy as a scientific study. He reveals philosophical theory as neither an accident nor an artificial construct; but as an exemplar of its age; fashioned by its antecedents and contemporary circumstances; and serving as a model for the future. The author himself appears to have regarded this book as a popular introduction to his philosophy as a whole; and it remains the most readable and accessible of all his philosophical writings.Eschewing the methods of original history (written during the period in question) and reflective history (written after the period has passed); Hegel embraces philosophic history; which employs a priori philosophical thought to interpret history as a rational process. Reason rules history; he asserts; through its infinite freedom (being self-sufficient; it depends on nothing beyond its own laws and conclusions) and power (through which it forms its own laws). Hegel argues that all of history is caused and guided by a rational process; and God's seemingly unknowable plan is rendered intelligible through philosophy. The notion that reason rules the world; he concludes; is both necessary to the practice of philosophic history and a conclusion drawn from that practice.
#242595 in Books 1995-07-25 1995-07-25Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.46 x .28 x 5.41l; .25 #File Name: 048628529480 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Light reading.By h. printswell written in an old fashioned way. a work of art rather than a scientific treatise. some of the plants listed here are quite poisonous (foxglove; lilly of the valley) but no mention is made of this in the text. this book is a nice addition to an already- large shelf of books on botany and herb lore.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Herbs and Herb Lore of Colonial AmericaBy Garden LadyThis is a very good reference book on herbs grown in Colonial times. Carefully researched by the Colonial Dames of America; it gives you some very interesting facts and plant lore about the herbs grown in those times and how they used them. It also contains a sketch of each plant. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that it does not give you planting instructions or zones where each herb can be safely planted. If you are an herb lover you will enjoy this book.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Amusing and Intriguing Little Book that provides a window into the thinking of colonial gardeners.By CustomerThis slim volume not only identifies herbs commonly found in colonial American gardens; it also tells why our ancestors grew them. Whether medical; mystical or culinary; everything in the garden had a purpose. I enjoyed that the authors provided historical lore for each plant as well as descriptions on how it was used or prepared. For instance; liquor distilled from lily of the valley "smeared on the forehead and back of the neck makes one to have good common sense."
