Kant’s Life and Thought in 18th-Century Prussia
Historical Context of Kant’s Philosophy
Throughout the eighteenth century, the so-called Old Regime – absolute monarchy and a class-based society under enlightened despotism – was on trial. All the powers of nations were subject to the authority of kings, who exerted control, exemplified by figures like Louis XIV of France. The burgeoning bourgeois class spearheaded the fight against this regime, culminating in the French Revolution, with its motto of “liberty, equality, and fraternity.”
Despite these changes, much of the social structure remained feudal. However, the bourgeoisie gained prominence, driving social change. The ideological conflict between the old and new societies manifested as the Enlightenment. Locke’s empiricist thinking had a major influence and became central to this movement. This era also witnessed U.S. independence. These events led to the abolition of the feudal system and a growing awareness of individual dignity. The end of the century saw the advent of the Industrial Revolution, marked by the discovery of the steam engine.
Kant’s Life and the Prussian Enlightenment
Kant’s life (1724-1804) unfolded during the Age of Enlightenment in 18th-century Prussia. The nation was governed by four kings: Frederick William I, Frederick II (the Great), Frederick William II, and Frederick William III. Frederick William I initiated reforms, transforming Prussia into a military and bureaucratic state. Frederick II, an enlightened monarch, elevated Prussia to the fifth European power under the model of enlightened despotism. Frederick William II, however, clashed with Kant.
Science, particularly mathematics, had recently seen significant development. Ideological censorship, previously absent, emerged. Kant himself faced censorship for a book deemed contrary to Christianity.
Kant’s Philosophical Impact
Immanuel Kant, the most important philosopher of this era, broke new ground with his thinking, profoundly influencing all subsequent philosophy. He dedicated his entire life to philosophical inquiry. He was fascinated by the politics of his time, supporting both American independence and the French Revolution. His thought is divided into two stages: the pre-critical and critical periods.
Social, Political, and Religious Context of Prussia
Frederick the Great, an enlightened despot, fostered and promoted the culture of enlightened ideas to organize the state. He invited French philosophers to collaborate with him. Religiously, the period saw the emergence of mystical currents of renewal and the expansion of Pietism. This movement, paradoxically combining a strict moral compass with a certain mysticism and a radical break with the Lutheran Church, preached tolerance and aligned well with the Enlightenment.
Characteristics of the German Enlightenment
These circumstances explain the unique features of the German Enlightenment:
- Culture shifted to Prussia and Saxony, promoted during the reign of Frederick William III.
- Unlike France, there was no significant social and political criticism, as philosophers admired the king.
- Culture was centered on the university, where philosophers were teachers.
- Philosophy was more speculative and technical, focusing on logical and metaphysical problems.
- It was conservative, not revolutionary.
- There was no conflict between religion and philosophy.