Absolute Freedom & Terror Summary and Analysis

The title of this new chapter is clearly dramatic. At this level, self-consciousness has an extent of self-certainty. However, the freedom associated with this level is caused by the disappearance of all distinctions and differences. Hegel tells readers that, since this is the case, this absolute freedom is actually only expressible through negativity. By virtue of this, Hegel explains, absolute freedom is closely connected with death.

Death is the one state where this annhiliation of difference occurs. Also, it hinges upon the destruction of the innumerable distinctions that give determinate qualities but simultaneously, and through doing so, limit freedom in certain ways.

Hegel briefly discusses the raw terror of death. Given that there was a war on at the time, all too close to where he was, one can see how it might be an unavoidable consideration...