Eigentlichkeit oder Uneigentlichkeit: A Reconstruction of Hegelian Political Philosophy to Counter Apathy and Cynicism

Authenticity depicts a return to the original intention of a constituted being; this is not limited to merely individuals but political phenomena as well. Hegel offers a theoretical pathway to address political apathy and cynicism. It goes beyond the empirical measurement of manifestations of the said phenomena, therefore ascertaining Hegelian dialectical concepts of freedom, recognition, and ethical life. These concepts are set as categories to qualify and translate the Heideggerian principles of Eigentlichkeit (Authenticity) and Uneigentlichkeit (Inauthenticity). The Hegelian concepts further build on prominent political experiences and circumstances that Heidegger qualifies as social. Therefore, having Hegelian qualifications of Heideggerian principles ascertain a categorical understanding of being political in the realm of being social. The importance of using Hegelian concepts does not mean inclination to being eclectic rather this is a methodological necessity. While it is true that Heidegger sheds light on how political actions may be manifested as authentic or inauthentic at the level of individuality, it is Hegel that provides the instruments to diagnose those actions as contributory to collective rationality, development in historicity, and institutionalism Moreover, the paper utilizes a dynamic understanding of collective rationality through the Geist – an unfolding spirit in historicity which is a counterforce against apathy and cynicism. Thus, exposing that the phenomena are not merely behavioral issues but existential pathologies within the socio – political sphere. The Geist is not confined to the political being alone but rather transcends to the political circumstance and their ontological impact to posterity. Further, the paper prominently proposes a Hegelian understanding of the sociological facet of politics where it becomes a force that is anti – apathetic and anti – cynical. This study argues that the mark of inauthenticity in political life, manifested by erosion of public trust, political disengagement, and low voter – turn out is a regression away from authentic political participation, self – actualization, and recognition.