Joseph de Maistre (1754-1821): experience of an intellectual biography (part 2)

The article considers the intellectual biography of Joseph de Maistre, one of the greatest conservative thinkers of France in the first third of the XIX century. The author’s key works and peculiarities of his traditionalist political doctrine are studied. The reasons for the revival of interest in the political ideas of J. de Maistre in the modern era and attempts at a “reappraisal” of his main works are analyzed. It is emphasized that the rebellion of tradition against innovation, which is typical of the ideology of French traditionalism, is a relevant field of research in the modern period. 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, the ideas of J. de Maistre are noteworthy that any social order is only acceptable, and political power is only relatively tolerant, and this tolerance is ensured by public institutions and traditions. It is also specified that modern conservatism rethinks de Maistre’s experience, combining respect for human rights and civil society with the protection of traditional values. In the second part of the article special attention is given to the issues that concerns the influence of de Maistre’s ideas on the foundation of conservative political thought in Russia.