Ethnic identity and ethno-cultural needs of the modern Russian rural population of tatarstan (based on ethno-sociological research)

Abstract

© Serials Publications. The relevance of the problem under investigation is determined by the following correlation activity: the degree of actualization of ethno-cultural needs and the overall level of ethnic mobilization define a comfort / discomfort level in the ethnic field. The paper aimes at analyzing the degree of actualization of ethnic identity among the Russian rural population, identification and structuring of ethno-cultural needs, and the subsequent determination of the general level of ethnic mobilization of the given group. A polyparadigmatic approach is used to study the problem as the basic approach, supplemented by certain provisions of the theory of cultural boundaries and the theory of social construction, taking into account the historical and cultural component of a particular social reality. The following field methods are implemented within the study: mass semi-formalized interview and structured in-depth interview. The paper identifies "de-materialisation" of ethnic culture and its reformatting into a social construct with symbolic capital as the main content of modern ethno-social processes. In the meantime, these processes are less intense and have their own characteristic aspects in rural environment. It is proved that ethnic and cultural needs of the Russians living in Tatarstan are stable and have no tendency for further expansion. In this regard, one can speak of the absence of significant motivators of ethnic mobilization in the group. Data discussed in the paper can be useful for social anthropologists (ethnologists), sociologists, demographers, regional ethnographers when studying local and regional communities.