By means of engaging in a metatheoretical comparison of the two
thinkers' approaches and analyzing their essential differences,
it is possible to pinpoint the sources of their metaphysical as
well as epistemological disagreements. I show that, whereas Hegel
took his task to be the progressive sublation (Aufhebung)
of the logical antinomies that his dialectic would encounter along
its way, Schelling was concerned to find the path of conative
reproduction (Erzeugung) by which certain universal forms
of volition, which he called "potencies" (Potenzen),
would sequentially emerge in poses of mutual reinforcement or
conflict. Schelling's insistence on the primacy of individuality
over universality, existence over essence, and volition over reason
issued an important challenge to Hegelian philosophy. The paper
concludes with a critical evaluation of the two thinkers' respective
methods.
Return to Edward Beach's Publications page