Hugo Kołłątaj – kapłan, mąż stanu i polityk

Abstract

Practical attitude towards gaining knowledge to change in the eighteenth century philosophy combined with radical quest for elimination of supernatural phenomena but primarily Christian virtues became a reason for revival and development of materialism as far as the view of reality and human person is concerned. Empirical-rational approach in science and hostile attitude towards Christianity can be related to French and English Enlightenment philosophers but not Polish. Polish Enlightenment philosophers were able to combine contemporary science fascination and philosophical thinking with earnest ecclesiasticism. This was evidenced by the fact that several outstanding Polish Enlightenment exponents such as Hugo Kołłątaj, Stanisław Konarski or Stanisław Staszic were faithful Catholic priests. Hugo Kołłątaj, as a writer and social activist, belongs to the group of well-known and prominent figures in the history of Poland. A large number of works were written about him. It is worth underlying that Kołłątaj was one of the thinkers who during the Enlightenment showed exceptional interest in human person problems. Not only his social and political activity but also scientific and literary work were inspired by the quest for the good of a human being and by the pursuit to discover the truth of human being existence. This thesis is an attempt to show Hugo Kołłątaj, one of the leading of Polish Enlightenment exponents. His political, social and educational activity didnt restrain him from reaching his aims which resulted from the fact that he was a Catholic priest. His 200th death anniversary in 2012 is reason enough to present his life and his activity in many fields.