Theological Dimension of the Natural Sciences in the Worldview of Fr. Pavel Florensky

Abstract

Abstract. The article analyzes the generative factors of Fr. Pavel Florensky, mainly his natural science views. Based on the statements of Florensky himself, the biographical conditions for the formation of his scientific and theological views, which are rooted in childhood, are re-vealed. In addition, connections are established between the specifics of children's perception of the world, as evidenced by Fr. Paul, and his research principles. Despite the fact that he did not want to be the author of any special philosophical doctrine, nevertheless, the subtitle «Features of Concrete Metaphysics» of his work «At the watersheds of thought» gives reason to extrapolate his metaphysics as a special doctrine - this extrapolation is given in the article. Unity of research approaches Fr. Paul, both in the study of material objects of nature, and in the consideration of the phenomena of the spiritual world, determines the specifics of his theology. The article also touches upon important themes of Florensky's work: the question of antinomies, as well as «dis-continuity» as a basic characteristic of our world. The author of the article, referring to the controversial statements of Fr. Paul, holds the idea of the need for a theological correction of its individual provisions, which will lead to the actualization for the Church of the valuable fruits of creative thought generated by Her.