This rich study explores the elements of Hegel's social and political thought that are most relevant to our society today. Combating the prevailing post-World War II stereotype of Hegel as a proto-fascist, Charles Taylor argues that Hegel aimed not to deny the rights of individuality but to synthesise them with the intrinsic good of community membership. Hegel's goal of a society of free individuals whose social activity is expressive of who they are seems an even more distant goal now, and Taylor's discussion has renewed relevance for our increasingly globalised and industrialised society. This classic work is presented in a fresh series livery for the twenty-first century with a specially commissioned new preface written by Frederick Neuhouser.

'The book's format is very attractive and useful. In addition to an editorial introduction and author's preface, there are biographical notes on Hegel. Furthermore, a detailed bibliography and an index enhance this rather stimulating and meaningful contribution to Hegelian scholarship.' German Studies Review
'The best book published in English to recommend as a secondary source for students.' Teaching Philosophy

Charles Taylor is Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at McGill University, Montréal. He is best known for his contributions to political philosophy, philosophy of social science, philosophy of language, and intellectual history.