German Chancellor accuses Putin of misusing philosopher Immanuel Kant's teachings

NEW DELHI: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has openly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for what he terms as 'poaching' the legacy of the renowned German philosopher Immanuel Kant. During a speech at the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy of Sciences, marking the 300th anniversary of Kant's birth, Scholz accused Putin of misrepresenting the philosopher's ideas.
Historical and philosophical misappropriation
Kant, born in 1724 in what is now Kaliningrad (formerly Koenigsberg and part of Prussia), is a monumental figure in classical German philosophy, noted for his contributions to ethics, aesthetics, and philosophical ontology.Scholz's remarks reflect a deep discontent with Putin's frequent references to Kant, especially given the current geopolitical tensions involving Russia. "Putin doesn’t have the slightest right to quote Kant, yet Putin’s regime remains committed to poaching Kant and his work at almost any cost,” Scholz stated, as reported by Die Zeit.
Contrasting philosophies on peace and diplomacy
The German leader highlighted the incongruity between Kant's teachings and Russia's actions in Ukraine, suggesting that Russia’s involvement in the conflict stands in direct opposition to Kant’s principles regarding non-interference and peace. Kant's philosophy advocates for non-coercive peace treaties as opposed to forced agreements, a principle that Scholz upholds in supporting Kiev's stance not to engage in peace talks with Moscow under pressure.
Putin's admiration for Kant
Despite these criticisms, Putin has often praised Kant, proposing in 2013 to make him an official symbol of the Kaliningrad Region, where Kant spent his life. In a recent engagement in Kaliningrad, Putin lauded Kant as a significant thinker and highlighted the philosopher's maxim to "live by one’s own wits," a notion he believes should guide modern Russia as well.
Regional response to Scholz's comments
The administration in Kaliningrad responded to Scholz’s criticisms by asserting that Russia has done more than any other country to honor Kant’s memory and teachings. The governor's press secretary, Dmitry Lyskov, argued that Kant's legacy as a subject of the Russian crown historically ties the philosopher to Russia more than any current political claims.