Great Dualisms in the History of Philosophy and Their Reflection (and Impact/ Contribution) in Contemporary Policies of Freedom (long version)

This opinion article explores, in a speculative-heuristic manner, the underemphasized link between major dualisms in the history and present of philosophy – matter vs. spirit and individual vs. society – and major contemporary political doctrines and policies, namely conservatism, liberalism, socialism, environmentalism, communism, and nationalism. The heuristic-analytic approach is conducted within three analytical frameworks: balanced – imbalanced, harmonious – antagonistic, functional – dysfunctional.