Karl Jaspers (1883–1969) was one of the key figures in the intellectual life of the 20th century. He was a psychiatrist, philosopher, cultural scientist. Contrary to the times, which rarely left room for humanity, he sought to “preserve man,” and contrary to the opinion of most psychiatrists, he considered it possible to talk about the soul. Was existentialism a philosophical program or a way to preserve oneself? How was the most powerful philosophical movement born? Thanks to and in spite of what did Jaspers become such a brilliant thinker? These are just some of the questions raised by the author of the book. Complements the publication “Philosophical Autobiography” by K. Jaspers, which until now has not been readily available in Russian translation. The author of the book and translation is Alexander Vladimirovich Pertsev, professor, Doctor of Philosophy, specialist in modern Western philosophy, also known for his translations of F. Nietzsche, K. Jaspers, P. Sloterdijk, F. G. Junger and others. The book is intended for specialists , and for a wide range of readers interested in modern philosophy and psychology.