Psychology of Religion in Moscow University: Troitsky, Grot, Astaf’ev

There were two main types of philosophy and psychology of religion in Russia in the late 19th and the early 20th centuries: the fi rst developed in theological academies, while the second — in universities. In this article we explore the latter tradition, addressing the ideas represented in works of Troitsky (1835–1899), Grot (1852–1899) and Astaf†ev (1846–1893). These prominent Russian philosophers worked in Moscow University and were members of Moscow Psychological Society, their works played an important role in the development of philosophy, as well as psychology, which was still at the early stage of its development at the time. We discuss the connection between their general philosophical ideas and their approach to analysis of religion with emphasis on psychological aspects of their conceptions, particularly related to notions of religious feelings and psychological functions of religion as well as their original views on evolution of religious beliefs. Three thinkers whose ideas are examined in the article are unanimous in their understanding of inner experience as the most important (although not the only one) source of religious faith and beliefs. At the same time, the important diff erence between those authors is related to their understanding of sources and forms of manifestation of inner experience. While Troitsky describes association and abstraction as the most important conditions of development of religious consciousness, Grot focuses on feelings as a source of religious worldview, and Astaf'ev develops an original conception of will as a constituent element of religious consciousness.