Joseph de Maistre (1754-1821): experience of an intellectual biography (part 1)

The article considers the intellectual biography of Joseph de Maistre, one of France’s greatest conservative thinkers of the first third of the XIX century. The author's major works and features of his traditionalist political doctrine are examined. The reasons for the revival of interest in the political doctrine of J. de Maistre in the modern era and attempts to “new reading” his key works are analyzed. It is emphasized that the rebellion of tradition against innovation, so characteristic of the ideology of French traditionalism, is an extremely relevant field for examination in the modern era. J. de Maistre’s political views are systematized, according to which any speculative projects of social reconstruction are doomed to failure, since they violate the order of things established by the divine will and historical evolution. In this respect, J. de Maistre’s ideas that any social order is only acceptable, and that political power is only relatively tolerable, and that tolerance is ensured by social institutions and traditions, are noteworthy. It is also pointed out that modern conservatism rethinks J. de Maistre’s experience, combining respect for human rights and civil society with the protection of traditional values.