The Law of the Heart and Frenzy of Self-Conceit Summary and Analysis

It is actually here that Sentimentalism and Hedonism are introduced. Following this he enters into the "law of the heart." In common terms readers should view this as a reference to emotionally integrated consciousness and modes of functioning. The advantages and disadvantages of this are explored during this chapter.

Hegel asserts that while there is this tendency for humanity to "follow the heart" there is a major problem because society somehow also creates and exerts a force that goes against this very law. Duty, money or other factors may be this "counter force" but whatever it is, Hegel says, it is there. Hegel calls whatever it is that causes people to obey those forces that go against their "law of the heart" to be oppressive...