The phenomenon of holiness in the religious philosophy of Sergey Alekseev (Askoldov)

Abstract

Article devoted to the analysis of the main ideas of Russian Silver Age religious thinker, ‒ Sergey Alekseev (Askoldov). The highlights of his personal life and scientific career are revealed. The whole wide range of Askoldov's philosophical interests, which formed his own ideas is considered: from the theory of knowledge and panpsychism of his father Alexey Kozlov, till Orthodox theology and Vladimir Solovyov's system of “Christian politics”. In the context of his original views, the evolution of Askoldov's ideas about the Church and holiness is shown, which is the main subject of his research in the following article “Holiness and Its Achievements”. The main stages of the development of Askoldov's theological views are analyzed: from abstract theorizing in early works (Philosophy and Life, 1902) to more specific, practical ideals (About the old and the new religious consciousness, 1907; Religious meaning of the Russian revolution, 1918). On the example of the works “Four Conversations” and “The Mental Image of Christ” (1936‒1937), the late stage of Askoldov's religious and philosophical ideas is considered. In addition, the relationship of Askoldov’s ideas about holiness with similar ideas in the framework of the Russian spiritual, academic and secular tradition (in particular, with the concepts of Vladimir Guerrier and Lev Karsavin) is demonstrated. Keywords: Russian philosophy, Sergey Alekseev (Askoldov), Neo-Leibnitianism, Holiness, Alexey Kozlov, Vladimir Solovyov, Theocracy, All-unity.