The transformation of the progressor’s image in the trilogy by the Strugatsky brothers «Prisoners of power», «Beetle in the anthill», «The time wanderers»

Abstract

The article examines the evolution of the progressor’s image in the trilogy by the Strugatsky brothers Prisoners of Power (also known as The Inhabited Island), Beetle in the Anthill, The Time Wanderers (also translated as The Waves Extinguish the Wind). The transformation from an idealistic conception of the progressor as a hero-savior to a critical understanding of the progressor institution as a system tool is explored. Special attention is given to the conflict between personal and institutional approaches to progressor activities, as well as the problem of moral choice and responsibility for interfering in the development of other civilizations.