From confrontation to a dialogue: The dynamics of relationship between the russian orthodox church and the state (1917-1980)

Abstract

© Belyaeva et al. Purpose of the Study: The aim of the research is to study the tendencies and potential of the church-state relationship at a critical juncture of the great political transformations. An objective need to analyze the past experience of church-state interrelations in Russia and to identify social and cultural role of church as the embodiment of religion served as the incentive for the present study. The article considers church-state relationship under the Soviet regime, the tragedy of their coexistence, reflected in a strong opposition, oppression and almost complete liquidation of the church, and, as a result, its accommodation in relations with the government within that period. Methodology: The authors used philosophical analysis of the church-state interaction, historicism and comparison principles enabling to consider its dynamics and evolution trends within the defined period. The researchers make the presumption that church-state relationship should be maintained on a cultural dialogue and cooperation basis in contrast with prior politicizing it. Result: The authors prove the provision that state performs not only external social function of organization and subjugation, but, in fact, defines moral criteria of living as a community of like-minded individuals. The conclusion about purely utilitarian and politicized perception of the social position of the church by Soviet state is drawn. Implications: Theoretical implication of the study is promotion of the further research and development in the direction due to the methods used in the study. The material can also be used within university courses on history, culture theory, cultural studies and sociology of religion, history of world religions. Novelty: The novelty of the study is manifested in introducing of expanded concepts of church and state in the context of their interaction into scientific circulation.