ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concept discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book aims to acquaint the reader with the history of Russian philosophy, including all relevant material and exhibiting its inner dialectical connectedness and historical continuity. The history of Russian philosophy is much concerned with the influences of Western philosophy. The development of Russian philosophy did not begin until the nineteenth century, but these first manifestations of independent philosophic activity were preceded by a rather long period which may be called the 'prologue' to Russian philosophy. In eighteenth century Russia began with extraordinary impetuosity and ardent enthusiasm to absorb into itself the fruits of European civilization. This enthusiasm for the West applied to both the external and internal forms of European life. There was particular enthusiasm for the rich spiritual world of the West, with its divergent tendencies and searchings.
