THE CONTEMPORARY STATUS OF THE RELIGION OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES SIBERIAN ARCTIC

Abstract

The article reports on results of field research conducted in the Siberian Arctic between 2010 and 2015. Field research was conducted at the place of compact residence of indigenous people: Evenks, Dolgans, Nganasans, Chulyms, Nenets people, and Selkup people. In addition to field research, methods of expert interview were applied, with representatives of the indigenous people of the Siberian Arctic, including scholars, community leaders, members of the business community, and local government officials acting as experts. The research made use of statistical data on demographics, places of residence, employment, and religious affiliations of the indigenous peoples of the Siberian Arctic. Ethnic and cultural identities of the indigenous people depend on religious affiliation. The post-Soviet period has seen rapid transformation of indigenous peoples' religious identities. Shamanism, the traditional religion of the indigenous peoples of the Siberian Arctic, is assuming new forms; it is adapting in response to market economy, mass culture, and global change.