A number of quite definite stereotypes about the inhabitants of Russia have formed abroad, however, they do not always correspond to reality, the analyst of Vestnik Kavkaza, Artem Sokolov said today at the National Question program on Vesti FM
The National Question is a weekly program on Vesti.FM, during which the hosts and their guests discuss various aspects of national relations, primarily in Russia. Today's program was dedicated to national stereotypes, their positive and negative aspects.
According to Sokolov, almost a central stereotype of all times is vodka, along with balalaika and bears walking on the streets. "Abroad, for some reason, it is commonly believed that in Russia people drink vodka like water, at any time of the day or night and seven days a week. Yes, we like alcohol, there is nothing to hide, but not all inhabitants of Russia abuse alcohol. According to various researches, Russia is not on the first place in the world by consumption of alcohol - in the UK or Germany alcohol is consumed no less, and maybe even more, " he pointed out.
According to the analyst of Vestnik Kavkaza, another extremely common stereotype is that all Russians are spenders who do not want and can not save money. "In Europe, people traditionally save on everything, including utility bills.’’
"Another confirmation of this stereotype is the way our fellow citizens rest abroad: we think, that if we came to spend holiday, we made a big step. Russians traditionally buy a lot. By the way, until recently, about 30% of luxury clothing were sold in Russia , Ukraine and Kazakhstan, " the expert said, adding that overseas people do not distinguish between immigrants from different countries of the post-Soviet space, and often people from Kazakhstan and Ukraine are also perceived as ‘Russians’.
Artem Sokolov also recalled another well-known stereotype concerning the image of a Russian woman, combining both positive and negative clichés. "The positive side, of course, is that Russia is a birthplace of true beauties. Negative - that Russian women can not accept their age in any way, so they try to deceive the time and to look younger,” the analyst said.
An employee of Vestnik Kavkaza noted that, there is also much more pleasant stereotype of Russian hospitality. "We like to invite guests and visit guests, and even if someone suddenly comes without warning, we will meet him with open arms, feed, etc. It is hard to imagine such a situation in Europe,’’ Artem Sokolov concluded.
