Studies Network Presents

Ilyenkov: Soviet Marxism in Search of the Ideal – Film and Panel Discussion

David Bakhurst (Queen’s), Alex Levant (York), Rogney Piedra Arencibia (Queen’s)

Date: Monday 24 February 2020

Time: 5:30 pm

Location: Watson Hall 517

Abstract: Evald Vasilevich Ilyenkov (1924–1979) was the most significant Russian Marxist philosopher of the Soviet era.  In the “thaw” that followed Stalin’s death, Ilyenkov produced original writings on Marx’s method and “the problem of the ideal”.  He later became known for his resolute defence of a humanistic vision in the face of Soviet optimism about the scientific-technological revolution.  A celebrated figure among critical Marxists, Ilyenkov fought with the Soviet philosophical establishment throughout his career, from the bitter controversy in the mid-1950s over his heretical “theses on philosophy” to the suppression of his late essay, “Dialectics of the Ideal”.  Alexander Rozhkov’s engaging documentary film, Ilyenkov, explores his life, work and legacy.