Orthodoxy as the Core Element of K. N. Leontiev’s byzantism concept

The article presents the result of a study dedicated to identifying the essential aspect of K. N. Leontiev’s concept of byzantism, and provides an argument in favor of the thinker’s choice of Orthodox doctrine as the central element of his concept. This allows for a deeper understanding of the author’s overall intent, as well as the logic, motivation, and goal-setting in K. N. Leontiev’s theoretical framework within the project he created. It is shown that the key to understanding the entire structure of Leontiev’s concept lies in exploring his theological and philosophical views on the proper arrangement of an individual’s life and his spiritual and moral development within society and culture. The outcome of their formation, development, and even viability is fundamentally determined by the specific representative of culture. At the same time, the question is raised about why Leontiev chose the Byzantine model specifically for his concept, the answer to which is given on the basis of the author’s “Athos Letters”.