Eric Voegelin Quotes
- Philosopher
- Germany
- 1901 - 1985
Eric Voegelin (1901-1985) was a German-American political philosopher and historian. He is best known for his work on the history of political ideas, particularly his five-volume Order and History. Voegelin’s work focused on the relationship between consciousness, history, and political order….Read More
Eric Voegelin (1901-1985) was a German-American political philosopher and historian. He is best known for his work on the history of political ideas, particularly his five-volume Order and History. Voegelin’s work focused on the relationship between consciousness, history, and political order. He argued that the search for order in history is a search for meaning, and that the search for meaning is a search for God. Voegelin’s other notable works include The New Science of Politics, The Political Religions, and Science, Politics, and Gnosticism. He is widely considered to be one of the most influential political philosophers of the 20th century.Read Less
Eric Voegelin (1901-1985) was a German-American political philosopher and historian. He is best known for his work on the history of political ideas, particularly his five-volume Order and History. Voegelin’s work focused on the relationship between consciousness, history, and political order. He argued that the search for order in history is a search for meaning, and that the search for meaning is a search for God. Voegelin’s other notable works include The New Science of Politics, The Political Religions, and Science, Politics, and Gnosticism. He is widely considered to be one of the most influential political philosophers of the 20th century.
Eric Voegelin Career Highlights
Eric Voegelin was a German-American political philosopher and historian who made significant contributions to the fields of political science and philosophy. He began his academic career as a professor at the University of Vienna in 1929, but was forced to flee Austria in 1938 due to the rise of Nazi Germany. He then taught at various universities in the United States, including Louisiana State University and the University of Notre Dame.
Key Contributions by Eric Voegelin
Voegelin’s most notable contribution was his development of the theory of political order, which he explored in his book “The New Science of Politics” (1952). He argued that political order is not something that can be created or imposed by human beings, but rather is a natural and organic process that emerges from the human experience of transcendence. He also emphasized the importance of understanding the role of religion and philosophy in shaping political systems.
What Sets Eric Voegelin Apart
What sets Voegelin apart is his unique approach to political philosophy, which combines elements of history, philosophy, and theology. He rejected the idea of a purely rational and scientific approach to understanding politics, and instead emphasized the importance of understanding the spiritual and transcendent aspects of human existence. He also stood out for his ability to synthesize ideas from a wide range of thinkers, including Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, and Thomas Aquinas.
Takeaways
Voegelin’s work continues to be influential in the fields of political science and philosophy. His emphasis on the role of religion and philosophy in shaping political systems has been particularly relevant in today’s world, where issues of identity and belief are at the forefront of many political debates. His unique approach to understanding political order also offers valuable insights for those seeking to understand and navigate the complexities of modern society.