SOCIALLY TRANSFORMATIVE SUBJECTIVITY IN THE POST-SOVIET RUSSIAN SPACE: ANTHROPOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS

Abstract

To examine the anthropological foundations of socially transformative subjectivity in the post-Soviet Russian context, and to identify how this subjectivity can preserve and reinforce Russia’s cultural and civilizational identity amid globalization and ideological confrontation. The study adopts a philosophical-anthropological perspective, grounded in historical-logical analysis and comparative methodology. It reflects on Russia's dual position as both a unique civilization and a part of global structures. The author analyzes ideological shifts since the Soviet collapse, incorporating cultural, political, and ethical dimensions of subject formation. This work addresses a rarely studied nexus between national identity, cultural continuity, and individual subjectivity within Russia's post-Soviet transformation. It emphasizes the need for an authentic, culturally-rooted subject capable of countering externally imposed models and resisting pseudo-subjectivity shaped by media and liberal globalization. The idealized post-Soviet “New Russian” subject proved incompatible with Russia’s civilizational code, based on community, solidarity, and cultural rootedness. The failure of liberal individualism led to social disorientation, asocial behavior, and ideological vacuum. The reassertion of patriotic subjectivity, supported by policy changes and cultural education reforms, is presented as essential to restoring national coherence and agency. The paper introduces the concept of “transformative subjectivity” as an anthropological and civilizational tool for navigating modern Russian identity. It contributes to political anthropology, national ideology studies, and cultural sociology by offering a multidimensional framework for understanding subject formation in transitional societies.