Publication Details

Abstract

The paper aims at the account of the problem of suicidal tendencies in modem times, based on the dicussion of F. M. Dostoevsky’s and T. G. Masaryk's works. In its first part the author gives a general account of suicide, as well as its various interpretations. In part II and III the problem of suicide in the works of F. M. Dostoevsky is examined. Part IV gives an outline of T. G. Masaryk’s work on suicide, which Masaryk wrote before his aquaintance with Dostoevsky's works. In part V the idea is defended, that further Masaryk’s statements and reflections on modem suicidal tendencies are in almost full conformity with Dostoevsky’s views. Part VI summarizes the previous parts - the author’s conclusion is, that although Masaryk changed his view on Dostoevsky more times during his lifetime, his explanation of modern suicidal tendencies as well as his idea of their overcoming are almost identical with those of Dostoevsky.