Conative component of religious identity of population in border regions of Russia

Abstract

In today's multicultural world, the growing migration exchange transforms the historically established ethno-religious and sociodemographic structure of local communities, which can create the threat of increased inter-group tensions. These threats are particularly acute in border regional societies, where migration processes are characterized by higher intensity and the composition of the population is more heterogeneous, including religious attitudes and practices. The purpose of the study was to analyze the specifics of the conative (behavioral) component of the religious identity of the population of four border regions of Russia (Altai Republic, Tuva Republic, Altai Krai, and Novosibirsk Oblast). Sociological surveys were conducted in 2022 (N = 1862) by means of an online platform. Based on respondents' self-assessments of religiosity and Huber S. the Centrality of Religiosity Scale (CRS), a typology of respondents' religiosity levels was constructed using a two-step cluster analysis. It has been revealed that the religious behavior in border regions is syncretic and combines both religious rites and actions prescribed by the religion practiced and pseudo-religious practices. Several regional peculiarities were found: the population of Altai Krai and Novosibirsk Oblast is characterized by utilitarian motivation in carrying out religious practices, the religious behavior of the population in the Altai Republic is marked by an eclectic combination of religious and pseudo-religious practices. Religious behavior of the population of the Republic of Tuva is manifested in participation in religious ceremonies prescribed by the professed religion, the desire to consult with the minister of religion and receive his blessing in important situations of life.