ABSTRACT
This chapter examines philosophy’s hesitant exploration of the link between revolution and right. The obvious contradiction is partly resolved by the argument that while legal and moral philosophy prohibits rebellion, a non-participant observer judges its wider effects sub species aeternitatis. Resistance precedes revolution; but normative considerations rarely distinguish between the two. The philosophical justification of resistance is reactive and defensive, a limitation placed by law on attempts by the majority to restrict, regulate or tax property. All resistance against the supreme legislative power, all incitement of the subjects to violent expressions of discontent, all defiance which breaks out in rebellion, is the greatest and most punishable crime in a commonwealth, for it destroys its foundations. Resistance and revolution violate current law and right but contribute to their eventual victory. The same argument applies by analogy to resistance and revolution. The cases of resistance Hegel considered rightful were instances of subject creation.
