The Concept of Drive in Classical German Philosophy: Between Biology, Anthropology, and Metaphysics

This volume discusses the concept of drive in classical German philosophy, exploring its historical development and its significance in Kant's and post-Kantian idealistic systems. It discusses the philosophical accounts of drives in Kant, Fichte, Schelling, and Hegel, as well as other important drive theories developed around 1800 by Herder, Goethe, Jacobi, Novalis, Reinhold, Schiller, and Schopenhauer.

Format: Hardback
Length: 332 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive volume presents a collection of fourteen original articles that delve into the intricate concept of drive in classical German philosophy. With a clear objective of offering a comprehensive historical overview of the concept of drive at the turn of the 19th century, the articles explore its historical development and systematic examination.

From the 18th century onwards, the notion of drive gained significant importance in emerging disciplines such as biology, anthropology, and psychology. In these fields, the concept of drive was employed to describe the inner forces of organic nature, particularly human urges and desires. However, it was during the period of classical German philosophy that this concept emerged as a pivotal philosophical concept, playing a crucial role in the works of Kant and subsequent idealistic systems.

Reflecting the complexity of this concept, the volume begins by discussing the historical sources of drive theories in the works of Leibniz, Reimarus, and Blumenbach. This foundational exploration provides a valuable backdrop for the subsequent philosophical accounts of drives presented by Kant, Fichte, Schelling, and Hegel. Moreover, the volume offers a systematic overview of other important drive theories that emerged around 1800, developed by figures such as Herder, Goethe, Jacobi, Novalis, Reinhold, Schiller, and Schopenhauer.

Through these diverse perspectives, the volume explores the multifaceted nature of drive, examining its origins, theoretical developments, and philosophical implications. It sheds light on the ways in which drive has shaped the understanding of human nature, motivation, and the pursuit of knowledge. By examining the contributions of these influential thinkers, the volume contributes to our understanding of the rich tapestry of classical German philosophy and its enduring impact on the field of philosophy.

Weight: 611g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030841591
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022