Karl Christian Friedrich Krause German philosopher. Date of Birth: 06.05.1781 Country: Germany

1. Early Life and Philosophical Pursuits
2. Masonic Beliefs and Persecution
3. Philosophical Synthesis
4. Pantheistic and Moral Attributes of the Divine
5. Universal Order and Human Purpose
6. Integral and Social Nature of the Individual
7. Systems of Right and Morality
8. Historical Progression and the Future of Civilization
9. Legacy and Influence

Karl Christian Friedrich Krause: A German Philosopher of the Enlightenment

Early Life and Philosophical Pursuits

Karl Christian Friedrich Krause, a German philosopher, was born in 1781. He pursued his studies in Berlin and Göttingen, where he delivered private lectures on philosophy. However, his sympathy with Freemasonry hindered his academic career.

Masonic Beliefs and Persecution

Krause's open affiliation with Freemasonry caused him controversies. In Göttingen, he faced criminal charges for advocating the brotherhood of mankind. In 1811, he was expelled from the Masonic Order due to his controversial writings. Despite these setbacks, he published several works on the subject, including "Die drei ältesten Kunsturkunden der Freimaurerbruderschaft" and "Höhere Vergeistigung der echt überlieferten Grundsymbole der Freimaurerei."

Philosophical Synthesis

Krause's philosophy sought to reconcile the subjective doctrines of Fichte with the objective teachings of Schelling, while incorporating Christian perspectives. He based his system on the concept of consciousness, which he believed provided direct knowledge of the divine.

Pantheistic and Moral Attributes of the Divine

Krause argued that the divine being is free from contradictions and is an absolute unity in itself. However, it also contains all contradictions, including the fundamental one between nature and reason. The divine exists both outside and within the world, as it is limitless yet also manifested within the bounds of the universe. Additionally, he attributed moral qualities to the divine, such as goodness and love.

Universal Order and Human Purpose

According to Krause, the world is the unfolding of the divine in space and time. The most perfect part of the universe is the human individual, who embodies both nature and reason. The purpose of human life is to live in harmony with the divine, and individuals contribute to the evolution of the universe through their actions and consciousness.

Integral and Social Nature of the Individual

Krause recognized that individuals are not isolated entities. They belong to a hierarchy of organisms, from family and tribe to nation, race, and humanity. He viewed humanity as a "kingdom of spirits" in which reason is distributed organically. The souls that constitute humanity are eternal and manifest the divine through successive existences.

Systems of Right and Morality

Krause developed an original theory of law that extended beyond external freedoms to encompass the totality of human existence. He argued that every organism within the hierarchy of social groups has its own legal rights. These rights are subordinate to the overarching right of humanity, which embraces all.

Historical Progression and the Future of Civilization

Krause understood history as a progression driven by two laws: an ascending law and a descending law. Each law operates in three stages: inception, growth, and maturity. He believed that humanity is entering the final stage of its maturity, characterized by freedom, tolerance, and enlightenment. However, he also anticipated a decline and eventual end for civilization.

Legacy and Influence

Krause's philosophical system gained followers primarily in Germany and Latin America. His ideas inspired national heroes such as José Martí of Cuba and José Rizal of the Philippines. His writings have been published posthumously, and his philosophy continues to be studied and debated today.