The civilizational peculiarities of Russia, the Russian idea, and state ideology

Abstract

The double‑headed eagle on the Russian state emblem accurately symbolizes the civilizational complexity of Russia and its distinctiveness from both its Western and Eastern neighbors, whose influences the country has experienced over many centuries. For a state situated at the crossroads of civilizations – and constantly exposed to threats from the North, South, West, and East – safeguarding sovereignty has been vitally important. This could only be achieved through strong authority and a unified state. These political ideals are symbolized on the Russian coat of arms by the three crowns, the scepter, and the orb. It is evident that upholding these political values remains relevant for the Russian state today. The geographical specificity of Russia has given rise to a uniquely Russian phenomenon in the country’s socio‑political thought: the Russian idea. Its proponents have sought to articulate the country’s developmental prospects. This article examines the “Russian idea” proposed by Vladimir V. Putin on December 30, 1999, in Nezavisimaya Gazeta (Independent Newspaper). Putin presented it as a concept intended to fulfill the functions of a state ideology, although he considered the formal adoption of an official ideology inadvisable. The article demonstrates why the “Russian idea” advanced by the then‑future president did not achieve the expected impact, and explains the rationale behind the inclusion of Article 13, Paragraph 2, in the country’s Constitution. The article argues that, given the emerging external and internal threats, adopting a state ideology – one that provides a vision of historical perspective and strengthens the unity and power of the state – has become a necessity.