On Religious Studies and Esoterism

Abstract

Abstract. This interview explores key topics discussed during a visit by Professor Marco Pasi to Kyiv in June 2019, organized by the Workshop for the Academic Study of Religions. The visit included public lectures on Western esotericism and its influence on European nationalism and a second lecture on posthumous recognition in esoteric art. This piece highlights the discussions that followed Pasi’s lectures, focusing on his reflections on the evolving relationship between esotericism and mysticism, the historical development of esotericism, and the role of academic research in these fields. Pasi also touched on the growth of the European Association for the Study of Religions (EASR) and its engagement with Ukrainian scholars. The article provides insight into current trends in religious studies in Europe, the interdisciplinary nature of esotericism studies, and the field’s challenges.