Between Angel and Demon

F.M. Dostoevsky's “Accursed Questions”

Abstract

Here is a short list of questions that F.M. Dostoevsky the Russian writer asked humanity. “If there is no God, then everything is allowed?” The values of human life, love, family, social justice may have a civic basis, but only an understanding of their sacred basis makes them truly all-human. “With Christ or with the Truth?” Answer: of course, with Christ, for He is the Truth. In his question, Dostoevsky had in mind the scientific, logical truth. “Am I a trembling creature or have I the right?” Transcending the existing framework is an essential human property. But there are two ways: one — to overstep the human in oneself, the other — to overstep the anti-human in oneself. “Is the harmony worth the tear of a child?” The 20th century tried to refute Dostoevsky's answer to this “accursed question”, trying to establish certain models of harmony in life. But is it necessary to try to build the “kingdom of God” on earth or is the suffering of a person, that very “tear”, more important than any utopian projects? “Is it the greatest thought to turn stones into bread?” If the task of the inner growth of the soul turns out to be secondary in comparison with economic tasks, then it is impossible to achieve social harmony. “Why must I be virtuous?” The question of virtue is not just existential, but ontological. By rejecting virtue, you can destroy everything around you and yourself both physically and spiritually.