Mass consciousness of Russian youth: image of the future

This is the second text within the all-Russian research on the image of the future in the mass consciousness using the methods of empirical sociology. In 2021-2024, researchers conducted 67 focus groups in 25 regions from Moscow to Kamchatka. In addition to diverse geography, the authors consider all types of localities as a research space: from supercities to small towns and villages. Two key methods are used: focus groups and psychography. Images of Russia in the present and in the future are described not only using words, but also presented in pictures by respondents. This text focuses on the study of mass consciousness of young people (age 18-30) and more local trends in geographical, generational, political and economic senses. The text highlights eight key trends in the mass consciousness of young people: socialization within Western culture, the highest level of paternalism (including the desired restoration of certain Soviet practices), weakening frustration due to cancel culture regarding Russia and its citizens from the West, demonstrative public depoliticization, permanent desire for a peaceful future with Russia's leading role in the international arena, etc. Despite the uneven attitude towards state institutions, the Fatherland is perceived by the mass consciousness of young people as a place to apply their own efforts to build a career and solve problems. The results of the study demonstrate the highest margin of safety of the Russian state, which has no alternatives regarding the construction of the image of the future.