Urgency of Addressing the Problem of State Ideology: Divergent Perspectives from Scholars and Politicians

Abstract

Throughout its centuries-long history, Russia has repeatedly attempted to define its historical purpose, determine the course and strategy of sociopolitical development, and articulate the value preferences guiding its society. It is evident that addressing such a complex undertaking, burdened with profound objectives, necessitates an appropriate framework of ideas, perspectives, and theories. This article substantiates the possibility, necessity, and practical significance of a state ideology, while also questioning the relevance, in contemporary historical conditions, of maintaining the constitutional prohibition on a state or mandatory ideology. Russia possesses an ideology of statehood, with its main substantive components enshrined in the country’s Constitution, relevant legal statutes, annual presidential addresses to the Federal Assembly, and relevant programs, doctrines, and other political documents. Central to this ideological framework is the concept of a federal democratic legal social secular state harmoniously integrated with the traditional ideals, values, and priorities of Russian civilization. This study adopts a comparative institutional and functional approach.