Hegel on war: From the Holy Roman Empire to the modern state and colonialism

This paper critically examines Hegel’s thoughts on war and international relations by situating them within the historical context of his time. Focussing on his understanding of post-Westphalian German history, I argue that his theory of the sovereign state in the Philosophy of Right was a response to the German situation following the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire, offering a pathway for the German community to secure its identity amid the dominance of great powers. I highlight Hegel’s failure to recognize the warlike nature of the modern sovereign state and critically assess his concept of international recognition. Specifically, I interpret Hegel’s notion of recognition applied to international relations as both a realistic vision for international peace and a framework with pro-colonial and Eurocentric implications.