Siberian Philosophy: an Intellectual Challenge to Overcome "Provincialism" and "Indigeneity"
Nikolai Rozov
The Siberian philosophy possesses features of both types: "provincial philosophy" (secondary, oriented to modern European and American traditions) and "indigenous philosophy" (isolated, discussing a secluded circle of local and / or long-outdated ideas). At the same time, there is a potential for a breakthrough to “metropolitan philosophy”, i. e. transformation of Siberian philosophy into one of the significant centers of the domestic and world philosophical network. The factors of overcoming “provincialism” and “indigeneity” include the combination of novelty and significance of results, the discovery and active discussion of deep difficulties, heated discussions on topics relevant in world philosophy with an indispensable original contribution, the combination of “pilgrimage”, “missionary activities”, attracting “stars” and interns from different centers of the global philosophical network. The definite competitive advantages and opportunities based on the positive features of the “Siberian ethos”can help to develop Siberian philosophy to prevail “provincialism” and “indigeneity”: courage and perseverance in overcoming difficulties, sanity, ingenuity, curiosity, practicality, horizontal solidarity and a willingness to mutual assistance.