Augustine of Hippo: his specifics of insight to falsity

The article has been written on the basis of the report delivered at the international academic seminar titled “Concept αιρεσις (heresy) in philosophy and theology: from antiquity to the present” (the seminar was held at Volgograd State University on May 16 and 17, 2023). The aforesaid article shows the connection between the insight into the falsity issue made by Augustine of Hippo and the antique tradition of human representation as well as falsity interpretation. It is generally known that Augustine of Hippo was a well-educated person, though his education was antique due to the time period he lived in, and such education considerably influenced his views. Contemporary researchers often characterise the antique view towards falsity-and-verity issues as epistemological, which makes it academical (i.e., non-bearing practical importance) within the frame of the available approach. The article points out the ineptitude of such a characteristic, if for no other reason than because the thirst for knowledge was, to a great extent, a search for a moral life path for those who lived in antiquity. Philosophical searches by Augustine himself demonstrate the aforesaid. Therewith, the beliefs of Augustine of Hippo were being shaped under the influence of Christianity, especially if speaking about the second half of his life. Therefore, there have been two definitions of falsity derived: one made by Augustine within his early life and the other made thereby within his adult life. Since the criteria of veracity and falsity were given thorough attention in the course of the report discussion, this issue is especially emphasised in this article. Besides, it is shown how the overall evolution of Augustine views was reflected therein. It is stated that the shaping of such criteria by Augustine turned out to be possible only within the late period, within the time of Christianity. In addition, the connection between the insight of a human and God in Christianity and adult Augustine insight into falsity is being considered in the article. Individual attention is given to the ethical and ontological sense of the Augustine concept of falsity.