Hegel, the end of history and the crisis of European primacy

This paper critically dissects Hegel’s Eurocentric philosophy of history, scrutinizing biases in his portrayal of Europe as the zenith of historical and spiritual development. Using Biagio De Giovanni’s insights as a departure point, the analysis delves into Hegel’s racial hierarchy, unraveling contradictions in his depiction of Asia, Africa, and America. Emphasizing the dialectical method inherent in Hegel’s Eurocentrism, the paper reveals Europe as a paradox— both the pinnacle of freedom and reason and a region laden with unresolved complexities. Examining Hegel’s philosophy in a contemporary context, particularly amidst Europe’s ongoing crisis and the ascendancy of alternative narratives like China, the paper challenges Eurocentric claims across economic, political, and ecological domains. In conclusion, the paper posits that Hegel’s philosophy, while rooted in Eurocentrism, prompts self-reflection and challenges the notion of a definitive end to history. Ongoing European crises and shifting global dynamics necessitate a nuanced reassessment, acknowledging the potential emergence of new world narratives beyond conventional Western perspectives.