Pyotr Lodiy's ideas of socio-philosophical research in the Russian Empire in the first quarter of the 19th century

The historical approach to Pyotr Lodiy's works made it possible to rethink his contribution to the formation of philosophy as an independent discipline and the development of university philosophical education in the Russian Empire. Lodiy laid down such ideas of socio-philosophical research as a critical analysis of philosophical concepts through the prism of personal practical experience, as well as aiming theoretical research on social problem solving. He made an invaluable contribution to the development of the philosophical framework of categories and concepts by introducing terminology of classical Western European philosophical systems to the Russian language. According to the comparative analysis, Lodiy's works were rather close to those of Immanuel Kant, since Lodiy agrees with Kant's categorical imperative. However, in Lodiy's opinion, it is not so much an individual moral duty as the social environment disposes a person to follow the moral categorical imperative. Lodiy argues that the goal of theoretical philosophy is practical philosophy, which, in turn, has an impact on social mores. Hence, it necessitates the state concern for the development of philosophical education. Due to Lodiy's activity, there appeared first doctors and professors of philosophy, who earned their academic degree at Saint Petersburg Imperial University. He also contributed much to the establishment of Russian philosophical schools and encouraged his disciples and followers to take interest in socio-political issues, which predetermined further development of philosophy in the Russian Empire.