Perception of Civic Values by Students in Moscow and the Kirov Region

DOI: 10.33876/2311-0546/2021-4/37-48

Abstract

At the end of 2020, a students’ survey in Moscow and Kirov region was conducted to study the perception of civic values and Russian identity. Young people’s perceptions of Russia’s cultural and natural heritage, significant historical events, and current activities of the state were examined as foundations for pride in their country. According to the students, the cultural heritage of Russia includes language and speech, epics of the peoples of Russia, folk crafts, household items, and national cuisine. The most important natural monuments as seen by students included Baikal, Altai, Kamchatka, and Karelia. The vast majority of respondents are primarily proud of the victory in the Great Patriotic War and the achievements of Soviet cosmonautics. The results revealed that scientific discoveries, cultural and sports events are of paramount importance for the patriotic feelings among the modern student youth. While the opinions on the most fundamental Russian values in the mass consciousness of young people mostly coincide, there are certain differences in the choice of answers depending on the territory of residence. This may indicate that political sentiments, reactions to external threats, and orientations towards participation in regional or state projects of young people differ in each region. To a certain extent, the students’ judgments can also be influenced by the curricula and the quality of education in metropolitan and provincial universities.