Importance of ethnoanthropology and theory of interethnic relations in discussing regional identities (Astrakhan region)
The paper highlights the main problems and aspects of ethnology, anthropology, the theory of interethnic relations in Russia and the CIS using the materials presented by the researchers and practitioners of the Astrakhan region. The regional specific features and conditions impact the theory of ethnos and ethnicity, the doctrine of tradition, the concept of identity. A new (since 2015) global discussion on “multiculturalism” and “interculturalism”, “ethnospecificity” and “interethnicity”), as well as the provision on “ethnonics” as “applied ethnology” are added to the list. There have been analyzed the latest works, in which the uncoordinated actions, shortcomings in the conceptual apparatus and haste of conclusions are stated. The development of ethnic issues in the region has entered a new stage. A new level of research support will be required by involving both heterogeneous sources and young researchers of different nationalities. Today the Astrakhan scholars need to declare themselves more actively at the all-Russian level revealing the peculiarities of their native region and the experience of practical work on its territory. It has been stated that the all-Russian population census of 2021 will play a significant role after processing and publishing the results about Astrakhan.