Positive Development of Identities in the Context of Change

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Abstract

The classical theory of cleavages can no longer be used correctly to analyze current politics. At the same time, the tendencies of identity transformation, the emergence of new actors and increasing conflicts between groups are only growing. In this regard, the need for a preventive identification of possible cleavages that may have ontological status in relation to actors is actualized. In the article, the author identifies two trends that have a structural character in current politics: the narrowing of the public sphere and the securitization of memory. Based on these two trends, two potential cleavages are identified: «elites/non-elites» and the cleavage along the lines of historical memory. The first cleavage is based on unaccounted requirements for the political system. The second cleavage is based on the increased transformation of identities and helps new political groups to answer questions about their past, their future and their political present. Bridging the first cleavage involves breaking down the dichotomous division of society into elite and nonelite through the search for unifying values and the expansion of the public sphere. Overcoming the second cleavage includes the creation of memory projects that form a common memorial landscape based on the value unity of society. It is concluded that for the constructive development of identities in Russia it is necessary to create positive projects of the common good with a focus on the development of the state.

About the authors

Ilya A. Turkin

RUDN University

Author for correspondence.
Email: Ilya.turkin2001@gmail.com
ORCID iD: 0009-0006-9485-1659

research intern, Department of Comparative Politics

Moscow, Russian Federation

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