The Place and Meaning of Religion in the Philosophical Systems of Hegel and Lotze

Home Page
About
Submit A Journal
Submit A Conference
Submit Paper/Book
- Submit a Preprint
- Submit a Book
Contact

Eskiyeni
Sayı: 59
The Place and Meaning of Religion in the Philosophical Systems of Hegel and Lotze

The Place and Meaning of Religion in the Philosophical Systems of Hegel and Lotze

Pages : 1747-1770

View : 196 | Download : 311

Publication Date : 2025-12-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study examines the role and meaning of religion in the philosophical systems of Hegel and Lotze from a comparative perspective. While Hegel, within the framework of absolute idealism, considers religion as a stage in human consciousness’s journey toward absolute knowledge, Lotze develops a metaphysics of value that grounds religion in individual ethical and existential experience. For Hegel, religion is part of a dialectical progression alongside art and philosophy; however, the highest form of knowledge is philosophy. Religion conveys truth through symbols and myths, whereas philosophy transforms these representations into conceptual knowledge. In Hegel’s system, God is understood as Geist (Spirit), which realizes itself through historical processes. In contrast, Lotze argues that God is not merely a metaphysical principle but a conscious and ethical being. According to Lotze, religion is not just a historical phenomenon but an existential necessity, reflecting an individual’s direct engagement with moral values. Love, in Lotze’s view, is the highest manifestation of God and the ethical foundation that enables humans to establish a connection with the divine. Ultimately, while Hegel’s approach is speculative and historically process-oriented, Lotze’s focus on individual consciousness and moral responsibility offers a more personal and existentially grounded religious philosophy. This perspective presents a compelling alternative for modern individuals seeking to comprehend their religious experiences in a meaningful way.
Keywords : Mutlak İdealizm, Geist, Değer Metafiziği, Etik ve Ahlaki Düzen, Tanrı

ORIGINAL ARTICLE URL

* There may have been changes in the journal, article,conference, book, preprint etc. informations. Therefore, it would be appropriate to follow the information on the official page of the source. The information here is shared for informational purposes. IAD is not responsible for incorrect or missing information.