Calmversations s08e19 | alexander dugin, in calmversation
Nov 26, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Russian political philosopher Alexander Dugin sheds light on traditionalism's role in modern geopolitics. He contrasts the Western materialism with the spiritual ontology of Orthodoxy, reflecting on the historical bifurcation of Eastern and Western Christianity. Dugin also explores the impact of modernity on peasantry and advocates for a revival of rootedness in community life. He critiques capitalism as a materialist illusion and promotes a practical approach to traditionalism, emphasizing the need for cultural-political engagement.
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The West As A Modern Construct
- Alexander Dugin argues "the West" is a modern 19th-century concept born in France, tied to secular modernity and Russophobia.
- He calls Western modernity an exclusionary project that rejects pre-modern Christianity and Russia's tradition.
The Schism As Civilizational Fork
- Dugin frames the 11th-century schism as the civilizational fork that produced Western modernity and an Eastern Orthodox path.
- He says Western modernity rose via Renaissance and Protestantism while Orthodoxy preserved a traditional, anti-modern trajectory.
Internal Versus External Ontology
- Dugin contrasts 'externalism' (modern materialist ontology) with 'internal ontology' (soul-first traditionalism).
- He claims Russia preserved internal sovereignty of the soul while the West moved toward disenchantment and materialism.
