Teplov as a popularizer of philosophy

Abstract

Grigorii Teplov was an important figure in eighteenth century Russia, particularly as an advisor in economic affairs to Catherine II. Educated in the Academy of Sciences and abroad he held some important positions: he was an assessor to the Academy, an assistant of Kirill Razumovskii who was a hetman of the Ukraine, and a head of the Commission on Commerce. As an academic, in 1751, Teplov published his book, Knowledge related in general to philosophy: for the benefit of those who cannot read foreign[-language] books on this subject. Teplov intended to explain to a reader with little philosophical background what philosophy is and what purpose it may serve. It was not intended as a textbook to be used in schools (Z 59).1 He intended to do it in two volumes. The first volume presents some philosophical terminology and a brief history of philosophy. The second volume was planned as a presentation of logic and logical reasoning, but it never appeared. As Teplov stated in his philosophy book, people should not be disheartened by the fact that knowledge may appear to be of little, if any, use. All knowledge is useful. If it is not useful or applicable today, it will be in the future, just as