For citation:
Yakovleva V. R. The socio-cultural foundations of Soviet society in the context of secularization theory. Izvestiya of Saratov University. Philosophy. Psychology. Pedagogy, 2026, vol. 26, iss. 2, pp. 131-134. DOI: 10.18500/1819-7671-2026-26-2-131-134, EDN: EBEYDS
The socio-cultural foundations of Soviet society in the context of secularization theory
Introduction. This article examines the socio-cultural foundations of Soviet society through the theoretical lens of modern secularization studies. Its central aim is to challenge reductive and monistic interpretations of the Soviet heritage. Theoretical analysis. The analysis employs a contemporary, multidimensional theory of secularization, which posits a transformation, rather than a mere decline, of the religion in modern societies. From this perspective, the study identifies two functionally interconnected, yet genetically distinct, foundational pillars of the Soviet project: Marxist ideology, conceptualized as a “transcendent” force driving revolutionary action, and Russian high classical culture, which served as a repository of the “sacred”. The argument demonstrates that while the regime instrumentalized classical culture for legitimation and social engineering, the cultural sphere maintained a significant degree of autonomy. Conclusion. The research reveals the duality of the Soviet heritage, emphasizing the independence of Soviet culture from communist ideology. Such a differentiated approach allows for a more balanced attitude towards the Soviet past, moving away from ideological monism, and facilitates the productive use of the best examples of Soviet culture in contemporary socio-cultural space.
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