The article deals with the paradox arising in the concept of V. Bibler in connection with the question of finding the beginning thought. Reason can justify itself and come to its beginning, only when it reaches universality. The self-justification of the reason is closely connected with the self-justification of the thinking individual. The latter must achieve universality along with reason. This unfolding of the reason is possible only in interaction with other reason, which also must achieve universality. However, this is impossible, since universality does not allow the presence of other. The way to solve the problem is planned with the help of the concept of composition developed by M. Bakhtin. The transformation of a text into a composition is a movement towards the universal, in which other composition constantly participates. However, it turns out that such a solution is possible only in the infinity. It involves moving to an unattainable horizon and it is impossible in reality. An analysis of the actual situation leads to the concept of a finite reason. Such a reason does not substantiate itself, its beginning is always hidden in other. The other is a transcendent source of being thought. Every thinking individual owes to the other both the ability to think and the very existence. In conclusion, two types of strategies for the other, developed in modern philosophy, have been identified. The first type is aimed at eliminating the other and leads to the construction of false universality. The second type preserves the transcendence of the other.