Ebook: Petrified Intelligence: Nature in Hegel’s Philosophy

A critical introduction to Hegel's metaphysics and philosophy of nature.

Petrified Intelligence offers the first comprehensive treatment of Hegel's Philosophy of Nature, exploring its central place within his system, including its relation to his Logic, Philosophy of Mind, and moral and political thought. It highlights the contemporary relevance of Hegel's approach to nature, particularly with respect to environmental issues. Challenging the standard view that Hegel devalues nature relative to mind and culture, Alison Stone reveals the deep concern to re-enchant the natural world that pervades his entire philosophical project. Written in clear and nontechnical language, the book also provides a critical introduction to Hegel's metaphysics.

“Stone has provided a book that is an indispensable contribution to environmental philosophers and Hegel scholars alike. However, like all good books, the real importance of this work lies in the fact that Stone has created a space for, and offers an invitation to, others to further develop the work that she has begun.” — Environmental Values

"Stone makes a plausible case for the position that Hegel's philosophy of nature is not only part of a broader and defensible metaphysics, but also is practically relevant, suggestive, and 'useful' to those concerned about environmental philosophy. This book makes an original and important contribution to the scholarship on Hegel's philosophy of nature." — Michael Baur, coeditor of The Emergence of German Idealism

"This is a bold and innovative work that makes a substantial contribution to both Hegel and ethical studies. It is the first time, to my knowledge, that anyone has attempted the project Stone proposes, namely, a new reading of Hegel's Philosophy of Nature that aims at a revaluation of nature and sensibility. I found it very interesting and thought-provoking, exhibiting a high level of scholarship and very thorough acquaintance with the majority of Hegel's writings; her arguments are well thought out and very persuasive." — Ken Foldes, author of Hegel and the Solution to Our Postmodern World Crisis: Essays