Semester of Graduation

Spring 2023

Degree

Candidate in Philosophy

Department

Philosophy and Religious Studies

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

In this work I compare Hegel and Heidegger’s conception of phenomenology and its role in their thinking. Though these two thinkers are not often examined from this angle, and though there is controversy surrounding just how phenomenological each thinker might actually be, an examination of the two thinkers in this regard serves to identify interesting connections between Hegel and Heidegger while also raising questions about phenomenology in general. In short, I seek to establish that phenomenology in both Hegel and Heidegger is not adequately understood unless it is placed in the context of each thinker’s conception of human freedom along with the imperative to somehow realize that freedom. In this work, I begin by examining each thinker’s conception of phenomenology separately while intimating phenomenology’s role in their greater project and aims. I then end with a comparison of the two thinker’s conceptions of human freedom and then show how phenomenology for each thinker seems to be formed and oriented within the context of the imperative to realize human freedom. Phenomenology is thus not only a rigorous, immanent philosophical methodology, but a transformative practice. I then pose questions concerning the phenomenological method in general that arose from this investigation.

Date

4-3-2023

Committee Chair

François Raffoul

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.5746

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