Skhid

European integration course of Ukraine: implementation of national interests and current challenges

Yelyzaveta Pietukhova

This article examines Ukraine’s European integration course as one of the main directions of contemporary foreign policy and a crucial mechanism for strengthening national security, ensuring sustainable development, and modernizing the state. It traces the historical evolution of Ukraine–EU relations, starting with the 1990 Declaration of State Sovereignty, the 1993 Verkhovna Rada Resolution “On the Main Directions of Ukraine’s Foreign Policy,” and the signing of the 1994 Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, and culminating in the granting of EU candidate status in 2022. The paper reviews key legal and institutional frameworks, including the Ukraine–EU Action Plan, the European Neighbourhood Policy, the Eastern Partnership initiative, the Association Agreement, and the establishment of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area. Particular attention is paid to the transformation of European integration following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which turned EU accession from a political and economic project into a strategy for survival, recovery, and security consolidation. The study analyzes the economic, political, and security dimensions of integration, focusing on the harmonization of Ukrainian legislation with EU law, modernization of state institutions, promotion of democratic reforms, and the prospects for accession negotiations in 2025. Key obstacles to integration are identified, including insufficient competitiveness of certain economic sectors, difficulties in meeting financial obligations, and the need to improve the professional capacity of civil servants. The article highlights the EU’s role as a strategic partner in security cooperation, including Ukraine’s participation in PESCO and EUMAM initiatives and the signing of bilateral security agreements. The findings emphasize that Ukraine’s European integration course is a comprehensive strategy aimed at establishing the country as an integral part of the European political, economic, and security space, strengthening its international position, and improving citizens’ quality of life.

Natural Environment and its Influence on the Psyche of the Ukrainian Ethnos

Valeriy Snizhko

The article is devoted to determining the role of the natural environment in shaping the mental foundations of the Ukrainian ethnos. It is argued that a specific locality in Europe determines the psycho-ethnic basis of Ukrainian society, which undergoes a multi-vector genesis precisely in the special natural conditions of ‘the integrity of space and time.’ The geopsychological influence of the biogeographical and specific biocenotic environment on the somatopsychic state of the human mind and the regional features of such influence, which are manifested in specific ethnic psychotypology, have been determined. These psychotypological characteristics are embodied in the way of thinking of representatives of certain communities, which today is referred to as “mentality”. We approach these states of the human psyche after coming from the archetypal foundations or prototypes of the human mentality. Therefore, we move on from various archetypal foundations that significantly influence the peculiarities of behaviour and economic activity (in particular, archetypes “man-plant” and “man-animal”) to the consideration of societies dominated by the so-called “agricultural consciousness”. Such societies always progress because, after having ensured their hunger-free living, they always strive to creatively improve their well-being, namely comfort, and actively resort to art in the form of the creation of a specific product. In return, people with the collecting consciousness and their own original “art”, evolve into the selective or appropriating consciousness, when the creative approach leads to the encroachment not only on the Nature, but also on those societies that generate the product the selectors steal. The agricultural reasoning instead offers agrotechnologies, pottery, cattle breeding, cooperage, agricultural inventory and many other things such as art, writing, literature, etc.

The Harmony between Ukrainian and European Values

Vira Dodonova

This article is devoted to the problem of comparing Ukraine's national values with European values. According to the Law of Ukraine “On National Security”, Ukraine's national security is defined as “the protection of state sovereignty, territorial integrity, democratic constitutional order, and other national interests of Ukraine from real and potential threats”. Experts rightly criticise this definition for being incomplete, since national values are no less important than interests. Values are also not mentioned in the Law of Ukraine “On the Basic Principles of State Policy in the Sphere of Establishing Ukrainian National and Civic Identity”. However, interests need to be complemented by values, as national interests in today's world can change rapidly under the influence of external and internal circumstances, while values are a stable foundation for statehood. Ukraine's strategic orientation towards European integration involves comparing Ukrainian and European values as part and whole. The basis of this process is a dialogue between European and Ukrainian cultural values. The system of values is revealed: a meaningful life, a vital system, an interactional, and a socializational system. To the usual complex of European values, such as freedom, democracy, and equality, others are added: "inner world", "deep respect for ordinary life", "self-fulfillment", as well as "freedom", "acceptable difference" and "practical rationalism of world domination". Among the Ukrainian values, the following are being analyzed: "desire for Order", "heartiness and sincerity", "freedom", "a feeling of a special connection with the environment", "a feeling of involvement in the affairs of other people", "the ability to overcome geopolitical traumas". Ukrainian cultural values are an open system, complemented by other components. Demonstrating the similarity between Ukrainian and European values in the table, the author concludes that the similarity of cultures makes Ukraine an integral part of the European sociocultural space.

The Development of Philosophical Thought in the Greek Colonies on the Territory of Ukraine (the Case of Olbia)

Roman Dodonov

The article is devoted to analysing the role of ancient Greek thinkers in the history of Ukrainian philosophy. Ukrainian philosophical thought, like all Ukrainian culture, is based on two fundamental sources: ancient cosmism and the Christian belief in the immortality of the soul. This makes Ukrainian philosophy part of the pan-European tradition. The search for European roots leads to the need to study the philosophical views of the population of ancient Greek colonies in the territory of modern Ukraine. Taking into account the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, the emphasis is placed on the largest of the Greek colonies available today – Olbia, the ruins of which are located near the village of Parutino in the Mykolaiv region. The article is written within the framework of the interdisciplinary methodology of the Ukrainian studies paradigm and takes into account the results of research in classical ancient literature (Herodotus, Diogenes Laertius, Dion Chrysostom, Ovid), prosopographic, epigraphic and archaeological discoveries. The first colonists in Olbia were citizens of Miletus, a city in Ionia with a world-famous philosophical school. It is hypothesised that the Olbiopolitans were familiar with the natural philosophical views of the metropolis: Thales, Anaximander, Anaximenes. This is indirectly indicated by the prevalence of graffiti with the name Anaximander in Olbia. Researchers have discovered bone plates with inscriptions such as “Life-Death-Life-Truth”, “Peace-War”, “Truth-Deception”, “Body-Soul”, “Dionysus-Orphics” testify to the popularity among the Olbiopolitans of ideas of Orphism and Pythagoreanism about the immortality of the human soul, the possibility of resurrection of the dead and “eternal return”. In the Hellenistic period, Dion Chrysostom wrote in his “Oratio Borysthenitica” about the philosophical conservatism of the Olbiopolitans, who loved Homer, although they were also familiar with the views of Plato. It is emphasised that Greek philosophy spread among the barbarian population of the Northern Black Sea region through Olbia and other colonies. The conclusion is made about the connection between ancient cosmism through Neoplatonism and early Christian ideas about the world, God, and man, which became decisive for the later Ukrainian philosophical tradition.

The image of the military of the Russian occupation army among the residents of the city of Kherson through the prism of oral history

Oleksandr Cheremisin — 2025-06-30

The article is dedicated to highlighting the image of the military of the Russian occupation army that was formed among the residents of the city of Kherson during the 2022 occupation period. The methodological basis of the research became oral history. This made it possible to focus on the life stories of narrators with different experiences and levels of life stability. What was experienced by the residents of the temporarily occupied city turned out to be an unexpected event for everyone and had an impact on their further lives. The authors relied on fresh memories, as their advantage lies in the important potential for reconstructing events, the image of the occupiers, and studying the experience. By recording the narratives of witnesses of contemporary events, we are dealing with factual and documentarily valuable interviews, which constitute the source base and will not be preserved in archives, while simultaneously providing researchers with answers to atypical questions. The article reveals the image of the Russian occupation army's military in many dimensions: the rules of life that the Russian military introduced in the occupied city; how local residents went through checks at checkpoints; observations of the military, how they behaved with civilians; how communication with the occupiers took place, with what difficulties they had to face during departure; how the Russian military conducted searches, detentions, arrests, and interrogations; how they abused civilians, keeping them in basements. The plots that the authors focus on could not be captured by photo and video cameras, and therefore the only way to learn about them is through documented interviews with eyewitnesses of these events. In the conclusions, it is emphasized that the Russian occupiers were remembered by local residents as wild, uncivilized tribes from the east, who were aggressive towards the peaceful civilian population. They tried with all their might to build a "russkiy mir" in Kherson and to show in their media that Kherson residents were happy with this situation. However, this was completely contrary to reality, as the population of Kherson was extremely negative about this alien element that destroyed the city's natural development. The image of the occupiers was exceptionally negative, as they destroyed the existing communication systems and infrastructure, mocked the civilian population, shot at and dispersed peaceful protest rallies, and banned freedom of speech, etc. The unique experience of the struggle of the self-organized civilian population is highlighted, as it conveys the essence of the resistance to Russian military aggression. In general, the article reveals numerous details of people's unique experiences under occupation: the atmosphere of occupation, the crimes of Russian troops, the torture of the civilian population, and the defense of their rights and freedoms by the Kherson residents, including the right to a Ukrainian future.

Collective Memory in Ukraine as a Factor in Identity Formation in the Context of Postmodernity

Andrii Vitov — 2025-06-30

This article explores the problem of collective memory as a foundation for the construction of Ukrainian collective identity. The authors argue that identity formation in the postmodern era is characterized by personalization, flexibility, and the ambivalent influence of globalization. The study demonstrates that Ukrainian collective memory represents a polyphony of interpretations rather than a homogeneous reflection of the past. Its competitive and composite nature is conceptualized not as a weakness, but as a source of pluralism, adaptability, and potential for critical re-evaluation. Accordingly, memory politics in Ukraine is presented as an active process of shaping a desired society. The article emphasizes that in the context of postmodernity and the Russian-Ukrainian war, collective identity in Ukraine is transforming into a dynamic, flexible, and personalized project. This process strongly correlates with Michel Foucault’s concepts of the "technologies of the self," which in the Ukrainian context evolve into ethical, cultural, and historical practices, shaping collective identity as a reflexive and open construction. Through war, memory, and solidarity, Ukrainian society not only defends its statehood but also creates a new moral and symbolic reality, where the personal and national, ethical and aesthetic, private and political are inextricably intertwined. The construction of a distinct national narrative and Ukraine’s postcolonial awakening are shown to be accompanied by the formation of unique historical conceptions, the affirmation of the Ukrainian language, the emphasis on European values, and the deconstruction of shared Russian-Ukrainian myths.

Dromology of Nihilism: Capitalism, Acceleration, Thinking

Nataliia Husieva — 2025-06-30

The purpose of the article is to study the relationship between nihilism and acceleration in the conditions of late capitalism. The nihilistic essence of accelerating reality, which is initiated by the intensive dynamics of the innovative economy, is revealed. It is shown that in the space dominated by capitalism, nihilism unfolds as a force of emancipation, which makes it impossible to turn to authority, values or tradition in the secular world. On the contrary, such treatment only masks real nihilism under the mask of fighting it. The article considers options for determining modernity based on nihilism, war and thought. The assumption is justified, according to which, in the conditions of turning speed and mobility into new definitions of freedom, slowing down the work of thinking is able to neutralize the nihilistic potential for accelerating information and digital reality. Modern nihilism no longer involves the implementation of the project of reappraisal of values, it turns the desert as a embodied human ability to be meaningless and absent, as an ideal scheme of annihilation of human individuality, desolation (devastation), which destroys the future and presupposes atrophy of cultural memory.

The problem of justice and the duty of a warrior in the interpretation of the Bhagavad-Gita

Vitalii Matvieiev — 2025-06-30

The article examines the problem of justice and the duty of the warrior in the interpretation of the "Bhagavad-Gita" - a sacred text that is part of the Indian epic "Mahabharata." Particular attention is given to issues related to life, death, and the fulfillment of duty, i.e., following one's dharma, which should ultimately lead to spiritual perfection and liberation from samsara (the cycle of birth and death). The central element of the "Bhagavad Gita" is the discussion of the problems of war and peace, presented through the dialogue between Prince Arjuna and the god Krishna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. The authors of the article analyze the philosophical reflections presented in the "Bhagavad-Gita" on how a person can find peace and satisfaction in a world full of conflicts by following true yoga.

The article points out that the "Bhagavad Gita" also draws attention to the moral aspects of war, emphasizing the importance of a just struggle. Krishna teaches that the struggle must be just and that the sacrifices of war should not be in vain. Krishna explains to Arjuna that fighting is not an immoral act if it is done in accordance with the duty (dharma) of a warrior. The duty of a warrior is to protect truth and righteousness, even if it requires participating in battle. Krishna emphasizes that war should be the result of higher goals, such as restoring justice and order, and not for personal ambitions, profit, or revenge.

The article emphasizes that the war in the "Bhagavad-Gita" is viewed as a necessary part of the universal process, in which it is important for everyone to impeccably fulfill their duty, following their dharma, without attachment to the results of their actions, doing everything as an offering to God. The article emphasizes that the war in the "Bhagavad Gita" is a multifaceted symbol that encompasses not only the external physical battle but also the internal struggle of each person for self-awareness, true understanding of their dharma, and spiritual liberation. The publication also conveys the idea that in the context of the "Bhagavad-Gita," war represents not just a physical conflict, but a symbol of spiritual struggle. The external conflict is merely a reflection of the internal, spiritual one. The entire "Bhagavad Gita" can be perceived as an allegory of a person's struggle with their own passions, attachments, illusions, and delusions.

The article draws parallels between the teachings of the "Bhagavad Gita" and the issues of the contemporary Russian-Ukrainian war. The Russian-Ukrainian war is examined in the context of the "Bhagavad Gita" through several key concepts of this classic Indian sacred text. Particular attention is drawn to the fact that in the "Bhagavad-Gita," special emphasis is placed on ethics, the fulfillment of duty (dharma), the struggle between good and evil, as well as the issue of inner conflict and the importance of spiritual choice, even in the most challenging situations.

Formation of national identity: cultural narratives of Ukrainian history

Maryna Kolinko — 2025-06-30

The article is dedicated to exploring the impact of narratives on national identity. It examines key approaches to understanding national identity, the factors shaping its formation, and the processes of its transformation amid globalization and contemporary hybrid challenges. Particular attention is given to the Ukrainian context, specifically the role of national identity in the conditions of armed conflict and informational influence.
The study employs a range of philosophical methods, including historical-philosophical analysis, hermeneutics, dialectics, phenomenology, and critical analysis within a constructivist paradigm, enabling the tracing of the evolution of the identity concept. It is established that in Ukraine, given its postcolonial past and ongoing war, Ukrainocentric narratives of unity, resilience, and pro-Western orientation prevail over destructive Russian narratives, fostering societal consolidation, integration of internally displaced persons, and mobilization of the diaspora. However, challenges such as bilingualism, media fragmentation, and intergenerational gaps complicate the formation of a cohesive «we-identity». The study concludes that the conscious construction and sup-port of national identity as a component of national security and cultural distinctiveness are necessary, through the development of harmonized narratives, promotion of Ukraini-an-language content, media literacy, and inclusive practices.

Religious Studies Education as a Factor of Societal Religious Security in the Context of Russia's Hybrid War

Irina Lomachinska — 2025-06-30

The article is devoted to analyzing the role of religious studies education as one of the key instruments of religious security in countering Russia's religious informational propaganda in its contemporary hybrid wars. It's noted that under the conditions of the ongoing military aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, the hybrid reli-gious war has become particularly acute, serving as a component of the broader hybrid strategy of the aggressor state. This type of influence is characterized by the combina-tion of religious narratives with means of informational-psychological pressure, cyber operations, and systematic support of religious institutions by Russian state structures. The primary goal of such actions is to undermine the internal stability of Ukrainian society, incite interconfessional hostility, delegitimize spiritual unity, and sacralize war by justifying it through pseudo-religious rhetoric. The significance of religious security as an important component of national security is emphasized, which should be understood as a multi-vector category that combines spiritual-cultural, legal, security, and socio-political dimensions aimed at achieving religious stability and civil peace. Religious se-curity is a component of overall societal security and the cultural-spiritual environment, encompassing legal, social, educational, informational, moral-ethical, and political aspects of regulating religious relations. The research is based on the results of a survey of Ukrainian university students, which revealed that the overwhelming majority of re-spondents (two-thirds) positively perceive the necessity of introducing educational courses on religious security and religious studies that would help better understand contemporary challenges in the religious sphere. Among learning formats, online cours-es, electronic libraries, and podcasts are popular, as they provide opportunities to acquire knowledge in an informal environment, at convenient times for listeners, in connec-tion with current events, discussions, interfaith dialogues, or social transformations.

Transformation of understanding of justice in the context of the problem of social equality: a philosophical analysis

Maksym Biryuk — 2025-06-30

The article is devoted to the analysis of the category of “justice” through the prism of the problem of social equality. It is noted that in the pre-modern naturalistic paradigm of philosophizing, where the main narratives were the correspondence of the social order to the eternal natural law, justice was associated with inequality and the principle of hierar-chy. Moreover, just hierarchy concerned both the internal spiritual qualities of the person himself, where reason should rule over passions, and the gender-social organization of society, where a man is superior to a woman, a Greek is superior to a barbarian, and so on. Within the framework of this naturalistic paradigm Plato`s and Aristotle’s approving attitude towards slavery should be understood, because from their point of view the soul itself can be slavish and cowardly by nature or, conversely, brave and freedom-loving. In the medieval paradigm of philosophizing, the conceptual connection of jus-tice-inequality is preserved; however, philosophers appeal more to divine law and divine justice. It is noted that in this epoch did emerge the concept of a “just war” as a sacred moral duty to protect the innocent. This concept of a just war remains relevant to this day, in Ukrainian military realities. In the era of the Enlightenment, with the advent of the new European paradigm of philosophizing, where the emphasis is on the rational subject and his will to power, justice began to be understood precisely as equality, as evi-denced by the philosophical tradition begun by I. Kant and continued in the twentieth century in the theories of justice of J. Rawls and J. Habermas.

Religious institutions in the transformation processes of Ukrainian identity in wartime conditions

Sviatoslav Vaskul — 2025-06-30

The article analyses the transformation of religiosity in Ukrainian society in the context of a full-scale war caused by the russian invasion. Against the backdrop of general European secularisation, the Ukrainian case demonstrates not a decline but, on the contrary, a revitalisation of the religious factor as a source of moral mobilisation, social support, and collective solidarity. The author demonstrates how war transforms the role of religion, extending its functions beyond ritual and institutional life into the realms of practical service, spiritual and psychological care, and humanitarian activity. Based on sociological data, the article examines the dynamics of public trust in the Church, regional and confessional characteristics of religious behaviour, as well as citizens’ expectations regarding the role of religious institutions. Examples of institutional adaptation and social service by the UGCC and the OCU are considered. The author emphasises that religiosity in wartime takes on an inclusive public dimension, contributing to healing, restoration and strengthening of national identity. The Ukrainian experience is seen as a potentially universal model of religion’s response to existential challenges, relevant also to other contexts of global instability.

The author analyses religious transformations in Ukrainian society against the backdrop of a full-scale war with russia, focusing on changing attitudes towards the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate) as a religious structure affiliated with the aggressor state. The author considers the patterns of rejection of pro-russian church institutions as part of a broader trend towards the affirmation of Ukrainian identity, the strengthening of national unity, and the pursuit of spiritual and political sovereignty. Considerable attention is paid to the analysis of draft law No. 8371, the reaction of international religious leaders, in particular Pope Francis, as well as the position of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, which demonstrates an example of moral autonomy and responsible theological discourse. The text critically examines the concept of political orthodoxy as a form of quasi-religious thinking that legitimises the imperial ideology of the russian world through religious structures. The author uses the analytical category of sect to describe the activities of the UOC (MP), arguing that it is characterised by closedness, authoritarianism, ideological pressure and manipulative influence. The article highlights the need for a delicate balance between protecting national security and guaranteeing religious freedom, emphasising the socially significant role of the Church as a source of solidarity, ethical guidance and hope in times of war.

Dialogue as an Educational Principle in the "Philosophy of History" Course to Overcome Conflicts of Historical Memory in the Context of Ukraine's Humanitarian Security

Olena Aleksandrova — 2024-12-30

The article examines the essence of dialogue and its potential application for mit-igating and/or overcoming conflicts of historical memory. Recognizing education as the foundation for social cohesion in Ukraine, the practical dimension demonstrates how Philosophy of History can be taught through dialogue and applied as a principle of social unity in addressing complex issues of historical memory and overcoming historical traumas. Such dialogue should entail: prior rational processing of historical memory content; mechanisms for overcoming opposing viewpoints; the establish-ment of a communicative space for discussing historical memory; re-evaluation of one's own "Self" and the critical analysis of personal views and beliefs, as well as one's historical memory; concessions and self-restraint in the perception of differing positions among communication participants; and the creation of consensus through the re-evaluation of alternative perspectives on historical events. Conflicts of histori-cal memory unfold across various dimensions and can be classified as: interstate; intrastate; between different social groups; and between specific social groups and the academic community. In the context of ensuring humanitarian security in Ukraine and addressing conflicts of historical memory, it is important to consider that after the war, three primary variants of social dialogue are likely to be observed within Ukrainian society: consensus as voluntary favorable attitude towards realities; inclu-sion as the opportunity for free expression of opinions; and participation as the realization of one's own ideas by interested social actors. The dominant variant form of dialogue regarding historical memory will depend on the monopoly of the current power structure, the strength of civil society, and the specifics of the social dialogue between them.

The religious factor of the Jagiellonian idea: historical origins and present-day realities

Olena Alekseienko — 2025-03-30

The article reveals the impact of the Jagiellonian idea on the development of Ukrainian culture and religion, which has deep historical roots and remains relevant in the current political and cultural realities. The author examines the peculiarities of the formation of the Jagiellonian concept formulated in the period of greatness of the Polish-Lithuanian state. The peculiarity of the political system under the rule of the Jagiellons was the ability to ensure the effective functioning of religious diversity. The Jagiellonian concept promoted the idea of creating a multinational community with a center in Poland, which included Ukrainian, Lithuanian, Belarusian and other peoples. The Jagiellonian idea promoted cultural exchange, the introduction of new religious ideas, and became an important factor in the formation of Ukrainian spiritual identity in the context of active interaction between Catholicism, Orthodoxy, and Greek Catholicism. The Jagiellonian idea actively promoted education, which contributed to the preservation and spread of the Orthodox tradition. In particular, the activities of fraternal schools provided access to Western culture while supporting the Ukrainian spiritual heritage. This allowed the Ukrainian church to expand its influence and preserve its uniqueness. The article focuses on the fact that the study of the Jagiellonian idea allows us to trace its influence on the formation of modern approaches to interstate cooperation and support for Ukraine's sovereignty in the context of geopolitical instability. The transition from these ideas to the concept of the Three Seas is a natural step, since the Three Seas Initiative seeks to unite the countries of Central and Eastern Europe into a bloc that would help strengthen their independence and develop economic, political and energy cooperation. The author emphasizes that the idea of the Three Seas, supported by many European countries, in turn, underlines the desire for a stronger and more independent Central and Eastern Europe, where Ukraine should play a key role as an important strategic partner. However, the diversity of manifestations of this idea and the different interpretations of its implementation demonstrate the complexity of how to achieve genuine tolerance and unity in the face of multiple political and religious influences.

New Age as a form of individual religiosity

Iryna Shavrina — 2025-03-30

The article discusses features of individual religiosity in the context of the New Age Movement. In modern society, the structure of religiosity is undergoing significant changes as traditional religious institutions face problems with a rise in non-institutional forms of spirituality. One of the main factors contributing to the growth of non -institutional religion is the growth of secularization of society. It was this process that led to a decrease in the influence and authority of traditional religion and contributed to the revival of new ways of actualizing religiosity. The New Age Movement, combining ele-ments of different religions, philosophy, and practices, becomes a kind of an answer to this issue. The authors draw attention to key religious and spiritual tendencies that affect the individual beliefs and practices of the Movement’s participants. The philosophical, social and cultural, as well as psychological aspects of this phenomenon are analyzed. The influential factors that contribute to the emergence and development of the New Age Movement, as well as the Movement’s place and role in the modern religious landscape are discussed. The authors argue that the New Age Movement is a form of non-institutional religiosity and as such is a unifying idea for those forms of religiosity that do not fall under the paradigm of institutional religiosity. The authors argue that the in-tersections of spirituality and morality in the New Age Movement and non-institutional religions create both opportunities and problems. While this Movement offers people the freedom to explore different spiritual paths and ethical dilemmas, it also raises ques-tions regarding the nature of moral authority and the possibility of reaching a consensus on ethical principles.

Religious factors in vitalistic practices of complementary and alternative medicine

Nataliia Ishchuk — 2025-03-30

This article examines the vitalistic (holistic) foundation of modern complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). It substantiates that, according to the principles of holistic medicine, health is associated with the harmonization of the elements and forces that constitute human nature on both the physical and spiritual levels of existence. Regarding the religious foundations of CAM practices of Eastern origin, the systems such as yoga, Daoism, and Ayurveda perceive energy as an impersonal force that an individual can accumulate, balance, and influence through physical and spiritual exercises to achieve health, longevity, and personal self-improvement. These systems are vitalistic, as they recognize impersonal energy as the fundamental basis of existence. In contrast, the conceptual foundation of CAM practices of Western origin differs fundamentally from Eastern approaches. These practices are not rooted in Christianity, despite having emerged in countries belonging to Christian civilization. This is because, in Christianity, the source of existence is God-Person, which significantly diminishes the ontological status of impersonal energy. As a result, Western CAM practices have developed an instrumental approach to vitalistic methods, adapting many Eastern techniques to the Western cultural and anthropological context. Additionally, they are based on various personal quasi-scientific systems, such as Mesmer’s magnetism, Hahnemann’s home-opathy, Palmer’s chiropractic methods, and others. To an external observer, these methods may appear impressive. However, whether a physician chooses to incorporate them into their practice depends entirely on their personal experience and convictions.

Religious Organizations on Social Media: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Prospects for Spiritual Communities in Ukraine

Irina Lomachіnska — 2025-03-30

This article examines the use of social networks by religious organizations in Ukraine for missionary, social, educational, spiritual, and cultural activities within the context of contemporary global challenges. The study's relevance and novelty lie in identifying the role of social networks as a driving force in modern religious practices. The concept of digital religion and its defining characteristics are analyzed. It is observed that social media play a significant role in shaping religious discourse, raising questions about the authenticity of faith and the influence of digital culture on religious experience. The study highlights the role of social networks as a vital tool for religious communication, evangelization, spiritual education, and the construction of religious identity in the digital sphere. The author evaluates both the benefits and potential risks associated with the use of social media algorithms for religious influence, which can simultaneously foster spiritual development and contribute to religious polarization. Furthermore, the article examines key official documents that regulate the use of social networks by religious organizations in Ukraine. Various forms of spiritual, educational, and socio-cultural activities conducted by leading Ukrainian religious organizations on social networks are analyzed, including online sermons and worship services, virtual prayer meetings, thematic groups for mutual spiritual support, the publication of believers' spiritual experiences, social and charitable initiatives, and the organization of religious pilgrimages and tourism. The conclusions underscore the significance of social networks not only as a critical means of communication but also as a powerful instrument for support, coordination of aid efforts, spiritual guidance, and informational resistance. In the face of global challenges, Ukrainian religious leaders actively utilize social media to fulfill both moral and spiritual missions while playing a crucial social role in fostering education and promoting civic unity during a difficult period for the country. Through their activities, they reinforce Ukrainian identity, safeguard national interests, and uphold spiritual independence.

Peculiarities of the military chaplaincy of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and the Roman Catholic Church in Ukraine in the conditions of modern war

Olga Nedavnya — 2025-03-30

The article examines the features of military chaplaincy of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and the Roman Catholic Church in Ukraine in the context of the war of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. The structures of these Churches that are responsible for the military chaplaincy and have already gained successful experience in such activities during the war (from 2014 to the present day) are identified. The forms of training of military chaplains are determined: these are courses organized at state military higher educational institutions, trainings and classes (including ones in the self-organized School of Chaplaincy Service in the RCC) on psychological, legal, socio-humanitarian and medical issues, which complement church education and are necessary during the war both in the army when providing chaplaincy care, and in the rear – for pastoral support of veterans, wounded servicemen, and relatives of servicemen. The peculiarities of the approach to candidates for chaplaincy are highlighted: the approach of the RCC in Ukraine is that they can be secular, including women (nuns and laywomen), and they are also invited for appropriate training; the UGCC is working on a more active involvement of nuns in the chaplaincy mission. A patriotic approach to chaplaincy service has been noted not only in the UGCC, but also in the RCC in Ukraine, whose Ukrainian-centricity has been strengthened by the modern war. The forms of presentation of the instructions of military chaplains, which are addressed to the believers and all defenders of the Fatherland, are determined: they are carried out both in direct communication with soldiers and their loved ones, and in printed publications for military personnel, defenders of Ukraine: “Catechism of the Christian Warrior” (UGCC) and “Pray and Protect!” (RCC). It was found that the military chaplaincy of the UGCC and the RCC actively uses innovations, i.e. modern information and communication tools (social networks and mobile applications).

Therapeutic potential of Zen Buddhism and its practice in the Post-Anxiety Era

Oleksandr Donets

This work explores the potential of Zen Buddhist practices such as meditation, mind-fulness, and acceptance of life's variability, examining their application in contemporary psychotherapeutic programs like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). The study employs a concise theoretical analysis of key Zen concepts, including emptiness (sunyata), satori (enlightenment), enso (circle symbolizing the universe), and the focus on living in the present moment. Methodological tools such as systematization, compar-ative analysis, critical reflection, and cross-cultural perspectives bridge Zen Buddhism and modern psychotherapy. Empirical evidence supports the effectiveness of Zen prac-tices in reducing anxiety by fostering awareness and cultivating inner peace. Techniques such as zazen meditation improve emotional resilience, reduce stress, and encourage the acceptance of uncertainty and life's natural fluctuations. These practices are particu-larly effective in addressing anxiety linked to fears of the future and a lack of control. Studies also highlight the impact of Zen practices on neurophysiological activity, show-ing improvements in brain function and overall psycho-emotional well-being. Programs like MBSR, which integrate meditative practices and mindfulness, demonstrate signifi-cant benefits in reducing anxiety symptoms and promoting mental health. However, their effectiveness can vary depending on individual factors, including commitment to prac-tice and cultural adaptability. Despite these limitations, Zen Buddhism offers a holistic framework that complements conventional therapeutic methods.
In conclusion, Zen Buddhism provides valuable tools for managing anxiety in the post-anxiety era. Its meditation and mindfulness practices, rooted in centuries-old wis-dom, have been scientifically validated as effective for reducing stress and improving emotional stability. Incorporating Zen principles into modern psychotherapeutic ap-proaches can significantly enhance mental health, increase resilience to stress, and fos-ter a sense of harmony with oneself and the world. These timeless practices offer a pathway to greater inner peace and well-being, addressing the urgent need for effective mental health strategies in today's fast-paced and uncertain world.

Ethno-confessional map of religious education in Ukraine

Evgeniy Deinega — 2025-03-30

The article explores the regional aspects of the formation of the religious environment in Ukraine within the field of education. The author analyzes contemporary research by Ukrainian scholars, particularly their academic works and publications that highlight various aspects of religious education. The study differentiates the concept of "religious education," examines the educational programs of religious educational institutions, and assesses their representation on the Internet. The research establishes the correlation between the historical continuity of religious education in Ukrainian territories and the modern educational landscape of the state.

The article provides a historical overview of the religious, cultural, and political factors that have influenced the development of denominational life in Ukraine. It describes the coexistence of representatives of various denominations, including Orthodox Christians, Catholics, and Protestants, while also analyzing the presence of other religious movements such as Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, and Krishnaists. The historical prerequisites for the formation of a specific religious-educational space in Ukrainian lands are examined in the context of the legal and regulatory framework governing the activities of denominational educational institutions. The study identifies the key characteristics of religious education in Ukraine. Furthermore, the article systematizes information on the distribution of educational institutions, programs, and practices that take into account the ethnic and denominational structure of the population across different regions. The study emphasizes Ukraine’s significant role as a platform for interdenominational and intercultural dialogue.

Ethnomental dimensions of the education process in Eastern Christianity

Mykola Stadnyk — 2025-03-30

The article explores the ethnomental dimensions of the educational process within Eastern Christianity. It examines the historical context of the issue by substantiating the factors influencing the formation of ethnomental characteristics among different nations and highlights the role of education in preserving and transmitting the cultural traditions and values of Eastern Christianity. The study analyzes the perspectives of prominent scholars of religion regarding the role of religious and theological education in contemporary educational practices and the broader cultural landscape of the Ukrainian community.

The article emphasizes that, within the framework of Eastern Christianity, the ethnomental aspects of religious cognition are considered through key interrelations: religion and education, religion and knowledge, faith and reason. In the traditions of Eastern Christianity, particularly in Byzantine, Orthodox, Armenian, and other Eastern Churches, education has always been closely linked to religion. The educational process was aimed at integrating knowledge into an individual’s worldview system, orienting them toward the moral and ethical principles of Christianity.A crucial role in this process was played by theological education, which, within the Eastern Christian tradition, focused on an in-depth understanding of the Holy Scriptures and the Sacraments. The study of theology was not limited to mere intellectual analysis; rather, it served as a foundation for shaping confessionally determined life orientations. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the worldview processes unfolding at the intersection of religion, education, and the formation of national identity.

Usage of Digital Platforms in Promoting Pastoral Communication in Ecclesiastical Province of Owerri

Ikenna Iheanacho — 2025-03-30

The article presents the findings of a study on the use of digital platforms in promoting pastoral communication within the Ecclesiastical Province of Owerri. Utilizing the Technology Acceptance Model as the theoretical framework for this research, the researchers gathered both qualitative and quantitative data from clergy and church members of the Anglican com-munity residing in the Ecclesiastical Province of Owerri. A mixed-methods research design was employed. The sample size was calculated using Cochran's formula and comprised 384 individuals at a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error for the sample. Respondents were selected using multi-stage sampling. Eighteen (18) participants were purposively select-ed from the clergy of the Ecclesiastical Province of Owerri for the study. The researchers made the following key findings: clergy in the Ecclesiastical Province of Owerri utilize digital platforms to some extent for pastoral communication; however, they rely more heavily on television and radio for this purpose. Consequently, the adoption of digital media platforms is very minimal. The reasons for this situation were identified as: 1) insufficient security of digital platforms against fraudulent messages, 2) inadequate technological capabilities for broad-casting pastoral services (preference for WhatsApp, Facebook, and email newsletters among platform users), 3) clergy's apprehension that electronic communication will reduce the physi-cal presence of parishioners in church.Recommendations for the clergy in the Ecclesiastical Province of Owerri and pastors in Imo State regarding the use of digital platforms include: 1) transitioning to more secure and capacious platforms for electronic communication, such as Telegram and YouTube for live streaming; 2) more actively utilizing the potential of digital platforms for convenient communication, without limiting it to church members only; 3) training technical personnel to effectively use digital platforms for a wider audience and to counter cyber threats; 4) expanding the formats of personal meetings with church members.

Therapeutic potential of Zen Buddhism and its practice in the Post-Anxiety Era

Oleksandr Donets — 2025-03-30

This work explores the potential of Zen Buddhist practices such as meditation, mind-fulness, and acceptance of life's variability, examining their application in contemporary psychotherapeutic programs like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). The study employs a concise theoretical analysis of key Zen concepts, including emptiness (sunyata), satori (enlightenment), enso (circle symbolizing the universe), and the focus on living in the present moment. Methodological tools such as systematization, comparative analysis, critical reflection, and cross-cultural perspectives bridge Zen Buddhism and modern psychotherapy. Empirical evidence supports the effectiveness of Zen practices in reducing anxiety by fostering awareness and cultivating inner peace. Techniques such as zazen meditation improve emotional resilience, reduce stress, and encourage the acceptance of uncertainty and life's natural fluctuations. These practices are particularly effective in addressing anxiety linked to fears of the future and a lack of control. Studies also highlight the impact of Zen practices on neurophysiological activity, show-ing improvements in brain function and overall psychoemotional wellbeing. Programs like MBSR, which integrate meditative practices and mindfulness, demonstrate signifi-cant benefits in reducing anxiety symptoms and promoting mental health. However, their effectiveness can vary depending on individual factors, including commitment to practice and cultural adaptability. Despite these limitations, Zen Buddhism offers a holistic framework that complements conventional therapeutic methods.
In conclusion, Zen Buddhism provides valuable tools for managing anxiety in the post-anxiety era. Its meditation and mindfulness practices, rooted in centuries-old wis-dom, have been scientifically validated as effective for reducing stress and improving emotional stability. Incorporating Zen principles into modern psychotherapeutic approaches can significantly enhance mental health, increase resilience to stress, and fos-ter a sense of harmony with oneself and the world. These timeless practices offer a pathway to greater inner peace and well-being, addressing the urgent need for effective mental health strategies in today's fast-paced and uncertain world.

Mark Egart’s Travel Writings: Anthropology and Religion in Altai

Vitalii Shchepanskyi — 2025-03-30

The article analyzes the anthropological and religious aspects of Mark Egart's travel essays, which focus on the indigenous peoples of Altai during the Soviet collectivization of the 1930s. His book “The Ferry: Sketches of the Struggle for Socialism in the Altai Mountains” (1932) is examined as a valuable source that combines literary and ethnographic techniques to illuminate the profound cultural and religious transformations brought about by Soviet modernization. The study highlights shamanism, Burhanism, and everyday practices, through which Egart explores the interaction between traditional belief systems and Soviet ideological processes. Special attention is given to the methods Egart used to document the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage, as well as to how he integrated ideological narratives into his ethnographic descriptions. The article emphasizes the duality of Egart’s position: on one hand, he meticulously records the cultural specificities of the region; on the other, he interprets them through the lens of Soviet ideological paradigms, portraying traditions as relics of the past to be modernized. The study's findings evaluate Egart’s contribution to shaping the perception and literary image of the indigenous peoples of Altai through the interplay of anthropology, religion, and politics in the context of Soviet history. His travel essays are presented as an important source for understanding the dynamics of cultural change and the influence of ideology on traditional communities.

Participation of the municipal self-government of Katerynoslav in the development of secondary education at the end of the 19th - beginning of the 20th century

Vadym Korobka — 2024-12-30

The article examines the involvement of Katerynoslav's municipal self-government in the development of secondary education during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was found that municipal institutions in Katerynoslav began directly contributing to secondary education relatively late, primarily due to the constraints of the municipal budget. The study highlights that, under existing legislation, the establishment of women's gymnasiums was the most feasible field for municipal self-governments to implement educational initiatives in secondary education. Organizing such gymnasiums enabled municipal bodies to actively participate in managing educational institutions. The research demonstrates that the women's pro-gymnasium, which was later upgraded to a full gymnasium, serves as a prominent example reflecting the challenges faced by municipal self-governments in advancing secondary education. This case also vividly illustrates the process of acquiring valuable experience, thereby enriching the historical memory of educational development. The primary funding source for both the pro-gymnasium and the gymnasium was tuition fees. Significantly, the most substantial progress in municipal women's secondary education occurred after 1907, when Katerynoslav's municipal self-government, benefiting from new budgetary revenues, facilitated the operation of three women's gymnasiums and one real school. These institutions were provided with dedicated facilities constructed using municipal funds. However, alongside these positive developments, challenges emerged, including increased individual tuition fees for female students in Yekaterinoslav and occasional refusals of admission due to limited vacancies.