Century Quote by Frederick C. Beiser
“The years 1781 to 1793 are crucial for many reasons, but chiefly because they pose in an especially clear way the main problem of German philosophy for the next century. This is the old conflict between reason and faith which recurred during the pantheism controversy between Jacobi and Mendelssohn.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The German Historicist Tradition, 2003
The period 1781‑1793 highlights the central clash between reason and faith, foreshadowing later German philosophical debates.
In simple terms: These years show the key reason‑faith conflict in German thought.
Key Takeaway
Study how reason and faith interact in philosophy.
Themes
philosophy
history
reason
faith
conflict
Mood
analytical
reflective
Type
academic
historical
When to use this quote
- academic research
- teaching philosophy
- public lectures
- debate clubs
- personal study
Key Concepts
German Idealism
Enlightenment
Pantheism controversy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this conflict influence modern thought?
- What other cultures faced similar debates?
A Different Perspective
The focus on German philosophy may overlook parallel developments elsewhere.
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