Introduction
This collection is dedicated to questions surrounding Hegel’s philosophical method and its relationship to the conclusions of his political philosophy. It contributes to the debate about the importance of a systematic context for political philosophy, and the relationship between theoretical and practical philosophy. It also engages with contemporary discussions about the shape of a rational social order and gauges the timeliness of Hegel’s way of thinking. The chapters do not approach the topic of the relationship between Hegel’s method and system with his political philosophy from the same perspective—nor do they reach the same conclusions. But they suggest that greater attention can and should be paid to how Hegel’s political philosophy relates to his larger philosophical enterprise. It is hoped that this volume will enliven a wider debate about the importance of Hegel’s system for understanding his philosophy as a fruitful site for future research.