Civilization patterns and historical processes. Arnason J.

Johan Arnason (b. 1940) - leading theorist of modern historical sociology and one of the founders of civilizational analysis as a sociological paradigm. Being in a productive dialogue with S. Eisenstadt, which developed the concept of multiple modernities, Arnason develops the so -called relational approach to the study of civilizations. One of its key features is the emphasis on the ability of civilizations to mutual training and borrowing certain cultural features. At the same time, the process of development of civilization, according to the author, is not always limited by the predictable scenario - its direction can change under the influence of the creativity of social action and random events. Characterizing the relationship of various civilizations with the West, the researcher identifies the interaction of traditions, various ways of modernization and alternative forms of modernity. Analyzing the evolution of Russian society, he shows how the installation of “denial of Western modernity was formed with claims to surpass it.” The main provisions of its theory, and on the other hand, demonstrates the possibilities of its application, in particular exploring the Soviet model. These works are significant not only for comprehending historical changes in the dominant and modern civilizations, but also for understanding social transformations in today's world.