Социологическая наука и социальная практика (Dec 2015)
Paternalist Foundations of Russian Civilization in Workspace Relations
Abstract
The article sheds light on the matter of treating civilization as a standalone research subject, and attempts to review paternalism as a typical feature of Russian civilization, touching upon the forms of paternalism throughout history, the social and cultural implications of paternalism, and the potential influence it may have on workspace relations at industrial plants. The main subject of this research is the paternalist traditions in the industrial workspace, which first emerged during Peter the Great’s reforms and are prominent to this very day. The research targets employees of industrial plants. This article justifies the use of social and cultural approach as the most rational means of reviewing workspace relations through the prism of civilization development. Building upon the justification of the historical, social and cultural approach to defining the development stages of workspace relations, we single out and briefly describe six main types of paternalism. The article concludes the following: 1) even though paternalism has evolved from the patriarchy at the time of Peter the Great’s reforms to today’s corporate paternalism, this has not really lowered the level of workers’ vulnerability to the abuse of power by plants’ management and administration; 2) the paternalist disposition and behavioral practices among workers should be treated as an impediment rather than a spiritual bond that has ensured the development of Russian civilization; 3) even though research reveals such traits as the workers’ independence while carrying out their tasks, their critical attitude towards the working conditions and workspace relations (as revealed in their opinions and behavior), and the high labor efficiency in an unsatisfactory environment, none of these factors can be considered a reliable tool that will help fight against paternalism.
