Two generations of Soviet intelligentsia: generation – 1960th and generation – 1980th

Abstract

History of the Russian intelligentsia is a popular topic of discussions in social science. But generation approach was never used. The article is devoted to making a comparison of mental, ethical, cultural characteristics between Soviet intelligentsia generations – 60th and Soviet intelligentsia generation – 80th. In the article the author critically examines conclusions of authorities and proposes the results of his own research recently conducted.
The principal idea declared by author is that everybody must distinguish Intelligent and Intellectual. Intelligent is an educated and reasonable person with clear conscience who follows altruistic ethics. Intellectual is also educated and reasonable person who relies on intellect rather then on emotions or feelings. Intelligent opposes against Intellectual. This struggle is a mainstream of social life, therefore it is important to tell Intelligent from Intellectual. In the article are proposed formula intelligibility and formula intellectuality, that solve a problem.
It is given a wide panorama of Soviet intelligentsia mental activity in the end of XX century. Author analyzes totalitarian stereotypes, dissident movement, intelligent mythology, Gorbachev reforms and its infamous fail in order to understand the essence of intelligentsia generation – 60th. Fail of Gorbachev “perestroika” occur cultural trauma to young generation – 80th. Comparison the essential characteristics of two generations has demonstrated the intelligibility generation – 60th and intellectuality generation – 80th. But this conclusion is not evidence that Russian intelligentsia has to disappear.