The Frankfurt school and the main trends of the historical-philosophical process in contemporary Germany

In December 21, 2017 at the Lobachevsky State University the dis-cussion was held on the ideas of the Frankfurt School in the mainstream of the following aspects. First, the philosophical justification for the idea of justice as the principle of a rational and progressive social order. Second, the study of the realities of contemporary world society as the “late capitalist” focused on understanding which progressive social forces can instigate reforming of world capitalism toward the social democratic ideal of a rational and just society. Third, political studies of how new societies can emerge able to become a “group of influence” in the modern European political process and implement the philosophical ideals of the Frankfurt School. The participants also considered such key concepts of Jurgen Habermas' system as communicative mind, communicative action, and discourse, as well as a number of philosophical sources that influenced the formation of his theory. Also some concepts of such contemporary, though less known in Russia, thinkers – followers of the Frankfurt School's ideas, as Axel Honneth and Rainer Forst, were presented. The discussion also touched upon possible scenarios for the development of the world social process, including the issue of spirituality.