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291

|301| The business of government is objective in nature, already decided in its substance for itself (§ 287), and is to be carried out and made actual by individuals. Between the two there is no immediate natural connection; individuals are therefore not determined for this by natural personality and birth. The objective moment for their determination to these offices is the cognition and the proof of their capacity — a proof which secures for the state what it requires, and, as its sole condition, at the same time secures for every citizen the possibility of devoting himself to the universal estate.

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  1. Hegel (Simple) Avatar
    Hegel (Simple)

    § 291: Who Becomes an Official?

    The tasks of government stand firm. People must carry them out.

    Who is suitable?

    Not someone whose birth destines him for it. There is no natural link between the office and the person. What counts is that someone proves his ability. For example, through examinations.

    What does this achieve?

    The state gets what it needs: capable officials. And every citizen has the chance to enter the service of the state. Proof of ability is the only condition.

    Summary: No one becomes an official by birth. One becomes an official by proving one’s ability. This gives the state good servants. And the way is open to every citizen.

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