Сivilizational differences between Russia and Western (north american) Civilization: ethnocultural perspective

Abstract

In the article, the author discusses with the American professor S. Huntigton, trying to prove the originality of Russia as a civilization. Referring to the works of P.N. Savitsky, N.S. Trubetskoy, the author shows the peculiarities of its territorial-spatial structure and the ethnic population, traditionally living in Russia and considering itself its indigenous in habitants. Like the Eurozians, the author believes that Russia is neither Europe nor Asia, but a «middle state», which is an original civilization. Cultural and religious diversity - its distinctive features, historically established and enshrined in the thousand-year history of the existence of the Russian state. Citing data from the 2020 All-Russian Population Census, the author shows that representatives of more than 195 ethnic groups live in Russia. Russians, as the most numerous, perform the function of uniting ethnic groups, preserving their own identity. The uniqueness of Russia as a civilization is that it is open for interaction with both Europe and Asia.