Slavophiles

Slavophiles were 19th-century intellectuals in Russia who believed that Russian culture, traditions, and values—such as community, spirituality, and the Orthodox faith—were uniquely authentic and superior to Western ideas like individualism and rationalism. They emphasized preserving Russia’s distinct character and rejected the idea of blindly adopting Western ways, advocating instead for a society rooted in Slavic customs and Orthodox Christianity. Their perspective was part of a broader debate about Russia’s identity and future, advocating for cultural pride and spiritual authenticity over Western modernization.