Book Discussion: At the Vanishing Point in History: Critical Perspectives on the Russia-Ukraine War, by ed. Marina F. Bykova

Session Submission Type: Book Discussion Roundtable

Brief Description

The Russia-Ukraine war has compelled scholars across disciplines to confront urgent questions about the historical, cultural, and political forces driving this conflict. At the Vanishing Point in History brings together leading scholars and writers with deep expertise in Russian culture, philosophy, and literature to examine the deeper ideological and historical roots of Russia’s aggression. Through this inquiry, the volume provides essential context for understanding the unfolding crisis while proposing pathways for future research on this pressing international issue. Serving as a vital resource for scholars and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the war’s complexities, it also sheds light on its broader implications for global security and human rights.
By critically assessing Russia’s political and intellectual history, this volume underscores the need to interrogate the ideological foundations of the so-called “Russian world” and its consequences not only for Ukraine and Russia but for global civilization. The proposed roundtable will offer a crucial forum for scholarly engagement with these arguments, fostering discussion on the philosophical, ideological, and cultural underpinnings of war, nationalism, and authoritarianism—key concerns for those in Slavic and Russian studies. Beyond enriching ongoing debates, this conversation will highlight the essential role of the humanities in grappling with urgent global crises.

Sub Unit

• Religion, Philosophy

Chair

• Marina Bykova, North Carolina State U

Roundtable Speakers

• Marina Bykova, North Carolina State U

• Mikhail N. Epstein, Emory U

• Olena Pavlova, National Technical U of Ukraine "KPI" (Ukraine)

• Randall Allen Poole, College of St. Scholastica

• Yulia Sineokaya, Paris-1 Sorbonne Panthéon U (France)