Remapping Ukrainian Philosophy: Čyževs’kyj’s Approach to the History of Philosophy in Eastern Europe

Dmytro Čyževs’kyj’s contributions to Eastern European thought have profoundly influenced the study of intellectual history, particularly through his pioneering efforts to produce a comprehensive history of Ukrainian philosophy from the early Middle Ages to the twentieth century. This paper examines the theoretical framework underpinning Čyževs’kyj’s conceptualization of Ukrainian philosophy, tracing its roots to pre-World War I and interwar German-speaking intellectual contexts, particularly the works of Slavist Gustav Gesemann and Neo-Hegelian philosopher Richard Kroner. It explores how Čyževs’kyj redefined the narrative of Ukrainian philosophy, contrasting it with earlier approaches by Clemens Hankiewicz and Vasyl Shchurat, and offering new perspectives on the region’s philosophical traditions. By analyzing Čyževs’kyj’s proclaimed methodology alongside his practical strategies — such as canon formation and the selection and ranking of key figures — this study highlights his innovative integration of empirical research and abstract notions, emphasizing the enduring relevance of his work within the broader context of Eastern European intellectual history.