Philosophy as a Vocation and Profession: the History of the Formation of a Philosopher in Russia, Told in the First Person

This essay is a recollection of my years of study at Moscow State University and the beginning of work at the Higher School of Economics, as well as a reflection on the current period and state of philosophy in Russia in general. The purpose of this essay is an attempt to reflect on one’s belonging to a certain generation of philosophers, comparing it with past and future generations, as well as an attempt to trace the successive thread of generations. Using the example of my own apprenticeship, as well as teaching, the distinctive features of each new stage in the formation of philosophy in Russia are shown. Based on personal experience, the similarities and differences between Russian and foreign practice of teaching philosophy, as well as working in the academy as a professional philosopher, are thought through. The influence of the most significant and key studies and researchers on my philosophical perception, as well as on the formation of my generation of philosophers, is traced. The names and faces represent the characteristic spirit of a certain philosophical era, the most valuable and defining relationships for the author with colleagues and friends, the most important and promising projects and joint endeavors are recalled.