Abstract
The chapter is concerned with theoretical work of the Russian legal philosopher P. I.
Novgorodtsev, focusing on the concepts of natural law, social ideal, individualism, liberalism, rule of law and democracy. Novgorodtsev's interpretation of these concepts is embedded into broader contexts of both Russian and Western political philosophy and philosophy of law.
Novgorodtsev's work is analysed with regards to Russian liberal doctrine transformations from classical liberalism towards liberal socialism. The thesis discloses progressive moments in the author's thought demonstrating ways as to develop them.
Problems in question are inquired into through the prism of A. Honneth's critical theory of society which enables to approach the subject matter in its historical variability and conditionality and, at the same time, maintaining normativity.
The aim of the text is not only to assess Novgorodtsev's work topicality and contribution but also critically research into relevant problems in terms of the chosen topic, primarily metaphysical roots of liberalism and its limits as to the notion of man, state and law. The thesis shows that the Russian philosopher offered reformulations of old concepts not being able, however, to go beyond the liberal paradigm.
Hence his texts cannot be utilized for overcoming metaphysical roots of liberal democracy.