On August 1, 2025, the VII International Summer School dedicated to the legacy of Immanuel Kant concluded in Kaliningrad. The event, organized with the support of the forums Sochi Dialogue, Petersburg Dialogue, and the Kantiana Academy, brought together students and researchers from Russia, Belarus, Austria, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Brazil, India, Iran, and Nigeria.
This year’s theme — “Enthusiasm and History in the Kantian Perspective” — served as a starting point for discussions on the role of reason, emotions, and critical thinking in the era of global challenges.

The ceremonial opening of the school began with a welcoming address by Andrey Fursenko, Assistant to the President of the Russian Federation and Co-Chairman of the Sochi Dialogue:

‘I am confident that the summer school, which you are attending today, will become a highlight in the scientific life of our country and will contribute to the study and development of philosophical thought.’

Yana Vorozheina, Vice-Rector of the Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, noted:
“Last year, the Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University hosted a congress dedicated to the philosopher’s 300th anniversary. Unfortunately, many of our foreign colleagues could not take part for various reasons: some had objective obstacles, others lacked the courage. You, however, have this courage — the courage to make use of your own reason. That is why you are true followers of Immanuel Kant’s ideas.”

The School offered a rich program: lectures on the basic concepts of Kant’s philosophy of history, the role of emotions, and the phenomenon of enthusiasm; seminars with lively discussions on the connection between Kantian ethics, politics, and theology; a youth conference where participants presented research on lesser-studied aspects of the philosopher’s legacy; as well as tutorials — informal discussions that allowed for deeper engagement with complex topics.

A special highlight was an excursion to places connected with Kant: the philosopher’s monument, the Amalienau district, the island, and the museum bearing his name. This was not just a tribute to his memory, but also an attempt to “experience” the context in which his ideas were born.

An Austrian participant, Fetah, noted in an interview:

“Kant in everyday life is very difficult to grasp, but I see how every student makes an effort, shares their point of view, and tries to explain it as clearly as possible. The opportunity we have been given here knows no boundaries, because everyone is striving to communicate. The experience we have gained here is truly priceless.”

His words reflect the main goal of the School: to create a space for critical thinking and intercultural exchange. Even differences in languages and traditions did not prevent students from finding common ground — in both the literal and figurative sense.

At the closing ceremony, the Rector of the Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University was also present, and participants received diplomas along with the new edition of the Kantian Collection.

The VII Summer School proved that Kant’s legacy remains a living intellectual resource. In an era when the world is facing new challenges, his ideas — about reason, enthusiasm, and civic courage — sound especially relevant. Most importantly, they unite those who are ready to think boldly and independently.

• RU:  VII Международная летняя школа по изучению наследия Канта: философия без границ
• DE:  VII. Internationale Sommerschule zum Studium des Erbes von Kant: Philosophie ohne Grenzen