Richard Velkley is a prominent philosopher known for his work in several key areas, particularly in the context of German Idealism, existentialism, and the philosophy of history. Here are some of the main topics he focuses on in his writings:

1. German Idealism: Velkley has extensively explored the works of philosophers like Hegel and Kant, examining their contributions to metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics.

2. Existentialism: He engages with existentialist themes, particularly the nature of human existence, freedom, and the implications of existential thought for understanding human life and society.

3. Philosophy of History: Velkley investigates how historical context shapes philosophical ideas and the implications of historical understanding for contemporary thought.

4. The Nature of Subjectivity: He often discusses the concept of subjectivity, particularly how it relates to self-consciousness and the development of personal identity.

5. Ethics and Political Philosophy: His work also touches on ethical considerations and the role of philosophy in addressing political issues, often reflecting on the relationship between individual freedom and social structures.

6. The Role of Philosophy in Modernity: Velkley examines the challenges and responsibilities of philosophy in the modern world, particularly in relation to science, technology, and culture.

These themes reflect Velkley's deep engagement with both historical and contemporary philosophical issues, making his work relevant to a wide range of philosophical discussions.