History of Philosophy Group Talk (Taras Lyutyy, NaUKMA)

The History of Modern Philosophy Group is pleased to welcome as its guest speaker Taras Lyutyy, a professor at the NaUKMA Faculty of Philosophy and Religious Studies and a senior fellow at the Department of Philosophical Anthropology of the Hryhoriy Skovoroda Institute of Philosophy. He specializes in the philosophy of Nietzsche and has an interest in philosophical anthropology and the philosophy of culture. Dr. Lyutyy is currently a visiting professor in the Department of Philosophy at U of T.

Talk Title

Hryhory Skovoroda and His Philosophy of Self-Possession

Talk Abstract

Skovoroda was not inspired by the widespread Enlightenment philosophy during his time. His points of reference were ancient Greek and Latin traditions and medieval patristics. Although Skovoroda witnessed the destruction of Ukraine’s autonomy, and its transformation into a province in the context of the expansion of the Russian Empire, he did not become a revolutionary. The philosopher developed a doctrine of self-knowledge. According to the work of Skovoroda, each person should recognize their God-given abilities and talents. The main task is to engage in meaningful (congenial) work to live your most authentic life. Skovoroda advocates finding one’s place in the world, realizing their full potential, and achieving happiness.

One of six departmental Research Interest Groups, the History of Philosophy Group explores topics in ancient and/or medieval philosophy, the period from Descartes to Kant, and Jewish philosophy from the medieval period to the 20th century.