The Concept of State in Kierkegaard’s Papers

Abstract In this paper, I aim to show the evolution of Kierkegaard’s views on the state scattered in his Papers. To do this, I will carry out an analysis divided into chronological periods, and I will characterize each period in terms of its main features. The goal is to give a comprehensive account of Kierkegaard as a champion of the monarchical and authoritative state, who loses his patience and attacks the established order only when he thinks that Christianity’s truth is at the greatest risk. This interpretation contrasts both with a mere despotic Kierkegaard and with a more liberal one.