PRINCIPLES AND CONTRADICTIONS OF IZBORSK DOCTRINE

Abstract

The author studies theoretical and ideological backgrounds of social doctrine of Izborsk club established in 2012 after massive opposition protests in Russia. The role of Izborsk club as an intellectual center closely connected with the state is shown. The author uses the articles from the journal “The Izborsk club” as data for study. Three principle of Izborsk doctrine have been pointed out. Firstly, ethnic nationalism is based on the notion of “anti-Russian prejudice”, comprises elements of anti-Semitism and contradicts humanistic Orthodox principles, Russian philosophic tradition and civilized ethical standards. Secondly, ideological primacy presupposes introducing state ideology, changing Constitution and organizing the state in the form of “Orthodox caliphate”. The internal contradiction of this principle is conditioned by different points of view of Izborsk club members who preach socialism, Orthodoxy and Islam. Thirdly, negative attitude towards democratic values and human rights is the main uniting principle of Izborsk doctrine. As far as the social basis for the doctrine is outdated institutions, it includes elements of barbarous ages and presupposes using violence for achieving their social ideals. Thus, Izborsk doctrine reflects ultra conservative movement in present-day Russian politics and is not able to serve as a creative power for social development.