Prolegomena zur Philosophie, published in 1852, established the early academic reputation of Friedrich Harms, a scholar who navigated the shifting currents of German metaphysics. His work reflected a realist philosophical stance significantly shaped by the ideas of Fichte, positioning him as a distinct participant in the systematic discourse of the nineteenth-century German university system.
Academic Formation in Kiel
Born on 24 October 1819 in Kiel within the Duchy of Holstein, Harms received his education at Kiel University. During his formative period, he studied as a pupil of Heinrich Moritz Chalybäus, a teacher who provided him with a foundation in philosophical thought. He secured his habilitation for philosophy in 1842, beginning a tenure at his alma mater that would span over two decades. He advanced to the rank of associate professor in 1848 and reached the position of full professor by 1858.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Career Progression and Berlin Appointment
Harms maintained his professional affiliation with Kiel University until 1867, at which point he accepted a professorship at the University of Berlin, later known as Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin. Throughout his career, his academic contributions gained recognition through his membership in the Royal Prussian Academy of Sciences. He was also affiliated with the Burschenschaft Teutonia zu Kiel during his student years.
Philosophical Output and Posthumous Publication
The scope of his writing included Abhandlungen zur systematischen Philosophie in 1868 and Die Philosophie seit Kant in 1876. He also explored the history of thought in Ueber die Lehre von Friedrich Heinrich Jacobi, published in the same year. Following his death in Berlin on 5 April 1880, several of his manuscripts were brought to the public by Heinrich Wiese. These posthumous works include Geschichte der Logik in 1881, Logik in 1886, a study on the philosophy of law in 1889, as well as volumes on the philosophy of nature and psychology published in 1895 and 1897 respectively.
Fast facts
- Born: 24 October 1819, Kiel
- Died: 5 April 1880, Berlin
- Citizenship: Germany
- Primary Occupations: University teacher, philosopher
- Key Academic Appointments: Kiel University, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
- Notable Membership: Royal Prussian Academy of Sciences
- Language of Instruction and Research: German
Questions readers ask
Which philosopher influenced the work of Friedrich Harms?
He was significantly influenced by the ideas of Fichte.
Who edited the posthumous works of Harms?
Heinrich Wiese edited several of his works published between 1881 and 1897.
Achievements
- Held posts at Kiel University and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin

.jpg)