European Studies, School of Modern Languages and Cultures HKU

Abstract:
This presentation is an approach to Alexandre Kojève’s theory of historical change and interpretation of Hegel’s philosophy of consciousness, on which he lectured in Paris between 1936 and 1939. These lectures are famous for influencing a number of leading academics in Europe and were published as “Introduction à la lecture de Hegel” in 1948. This masterpiece influences philosophical and political thinking till today. Thus, Francis Fukuyama’s philosophical investigation and prognoses of the “End of History” is just one example for the tremendous influence of Kojève’s thought. Kojève’s own contribution to the creation of European Union might be seen as another consequence of his philosophical investigations. This paper deals especially with Kojève’s interpretation and extension of Hegel’s dialectic and in the seminar we will discuss Kojève’s understanding of history and its end.

Biographical statement
Luis J. Pedrazuela is a second year Phd. candidate in Philosophy at Spain’s UNED University Madrid. He holds a Master Degree in Philosophy from Deusto University (Spain) and obtained a MBA at Comillas University - ICADE (Spain). He has worked in the business private sector and currently he combines his research activity with his work as a freelance consultant for a family office.

8 February 2017

SMLC Seminar: Desire, History, Work, Death: an approach to Alexandre Kojève’s reading of Hegel 8 Feb, 2017 (Wed) 4:30-6:00 pm Room 4.36, Run Run Shaw Tower, Centennial Campus, HKU
Abstract: This presentation is an approach to Alexandre Kojève’s theory of historical change and interpretation of Hegel’s philosophy of consciousness, on which he lectured in Paris between 1936 and 1939. These lectures are famous for influencing a number of leading academics in Europe and were published as “Introduction à la lecture de Hegel” in 1948. This masterpiece influences philosophical and political thinking till today. Thus, Francis Fukuyama’s philosophical investigation and prognoses of the “End of History” is just one example for the tremendous influence of Kojève’s thought. Kojève’s own contribution to the creation of European Union might be seen as another consequence of his philosophical investigations. This paper deals especially with Kojève’s interpretation and extension of Hegel’s dialectic and in the seminar we will discuss Kojève’s understanding of history and its end. Biographical statement Luis J. Pedrazuela is a second year Phd. candidate in Philosophy at Spain’s UNED University Madrid. He holds a Master Degree in Philosophy from Deusto University (Spain) and obtained a MBA at Comillas University - ICADE (Spain). He has worked in the business private sector and currently he combines his research activity with his work as a freelance consultant for a family office.