A. I. Herzen and the history of Russia

The article revisits the theme of the creative and socio-philosophical views of A. I. Herzen. It examines the key moments of his work in light of contemporary social context. The influence of Herzen is noted not only as a philosopher but also as a publicist, author of artistically significant works, and public figure. The author highlights the fundamental influence of Herzen on the formation not only of Russia's socio-philosophical thought but also on its history. It is pointed out that one of the important aspects of Herzen's socialism doctrine is the balance between communal and private property, which, according to Herzen's thought, was supposed to awaken and activate the commune, curing its conservatism and inertia. The author argues that this did not happen and could not have happened under the Soviet rule during the USSR period.