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THE LIFE PATH AND PSYCHOLOGICAL PORTRAIT OF PROFESSOR VASYL IVANOVYCH ALBITSKY (1850—1926(?))

A.O. PANASIUK 
https://orcid.org/0009-0009-4942-609X
National Scientific Agricultural Library of the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ukraine

Nauka naukozn. 2024, 3(125): 130—152
https://doi.org/10.15407/sofs2024.03.130

Section: Science and technology history
Language: Ukrainian
Abstract: The article presents the results of a study on the character traits of the distinguished hydraulic engineer, educator, public figure, and professor of the Kharkiv Technological Institute, Vasyl Ivanovych Albitsky, with the aim of creating his moral and psychological portrait. The relevance of this research is highlighted by the fact that, despite V.I. Albitsky’s significant contributions to the development of science and education, many domestic researchers perceive him as a controversial figure, inseparably linked with the monarchical regime. Unveiling the individuality of this leading scientist in the fields of hydraulics and hydrotechnics opens new perspectives for understanding the connection between his moral values and his scientific and pedagogical activities. To achieve this goal, principles of historicism, objectivity, and comprehensiveness were applied; specialized historical methods such as the historical-biographical and historical-chronological methods were used, along with the prosopographic method, which enabled the reconstruction of the inner world of the professor-hydraulic engineer. The article is based on the analysis of archival materials from the State Archive of the Kharkiv Region and pre-revolutionary publications, which include the memories of contemporaries of the hydraulic engineer. The personality of V.I. Albitsky is revealed as a strong, talented, and confident individual with high moral principles. It is shown that the core of Professor Albitsky’s life and professional activity was deep religiosity, a heightened sense of justice, and a belief in the fundamental role of education in human self-improvement. The results of the study lead to the conclusion that the scientist’s attitude towards society in general and colleagues, in particular, was largely determined by political criteria. During a period when pro-monarchical views predominated among colleagues and students, V.I. Albitsky was noted for his openness in communication. However, with the rise of revolutionary sentiments, the professor became more reserved and joined pro-monarchical organizations. At this stage, he primarily communicated with individuals who shared his monarchical beliefs. Nonetheless, the image of V.I. Albitsky embodies a strong, talented personality who, despite the difficulties and challenges of life, persistently and confidently follows his own path. Thanks to his engineering ability to envision and implement his plans and projects even in the most challenging circumstances, V.I. Albitsky can be considered a leading specialist in the fields of hydraulics and hydrotechnics.

Keywords: V.I. Albitsky, Kharkiv Technological Institute, fields of hydraulics and hydrotechnics, hydraulic engineer, psychological profile, personal traits, moral values, Hydraulic Laboratory.

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