Self-reflection as a way of existence of national culture

Abstract

The article reveals some problems associated with understanding the nature of such a complex and multi-level phenomenon as national-cultural self-reflection. The latter is presented as a system of symbols and meanings that helps an ethnic group to understand its place in the world, reflecting its search for meaning and recognition. National-cultural self-reflection is the most important prerequisite for the ability to interact with representatives of different cultures and understand the points of view of others, which is of particular importance in the modern world. Reflection helps societies reconsider and clarify their core values, central to their cultural identity. Self-reflection is the most important way of creating national-cultural narratives that represent the most pressing social problems of the existence of an ethnic group. One of the decisive techniques for preserving the strength and stability of ethnicity is the narrative of the past, since the phenomenon of “common memories” itself is a system-forming element of national self-awareness.