“We - Them” opposition as a basic mechanism of National and cultural identity building

Abstract

The universal mechanisms of association and dissociation acting as a deep modification of binary cultural oppositions are analyzed. Figurative and symbolical modifications in the stereotypes of national consciousness of “insiders - outsiders” opposition are revealed; the constructive opportunities and destructive potential of “insiders” and “outsiders” symbolism are shown. The causes of cross-cultural (interethnic, interfaith) conflicts are discribed. The system of requisites and factors to prevent and minimize destructive modes of “We - Them” opposition in the contemporary society is offered.