I read this book directly after reading The Phenomenology of Spirit. It was a great, smooth transition. Also keep in my mind that because I've read Kant, Wittgenstein, and Heidegger, and a little Fichte, this makes a lot more sense that if I had gone in not knowing much about German philosophy, particularly the style known as German Idealism. Hegel is dense reading but his ideas are truly thought provoking and exciting for those who are curious. This is truly fascinating reading during the coronavirus pandemic of January 2021. What a great way to spend quarantine.
Anyways, Hegel would say I have a good life because I have a job under a corporation, that is under a government, that is under a nation, we as a people all are one people together, and as individuals we mere atoms, nothing. However, there is a clear and important discussion about we the people, and how important the universal will is, how important it is to see the good, and make the world a better place. But remember that is only the universal will, and that the state must act in whatever ways it may, such as by fighting wars or making peace in the world, increased taxes, and such.
