The distinctive features of cultural codes (by a case study of the spiritual culture of the peoples of Dagestan)

The study deals with the anthropologization of spiritual values in modern ethnic culture which has distinctive features within the framework of universal culture. The author regards the spiritual values of the peoples of Dagestan as a set of meanings that serve as the basis for daily interpretation of the lifeworld of a person. The culture of these peoples is described in a combined universal and ethnic context, which explains the relevance of its reflection from a philosophical perspective. In the author’s opinion, the one-of-the-kind syncretic beliefs, religious traditions, and moral principles are essential and significant for present-day social development and coexist in harmony in the everyday life of the Dagestanis. The study shows the aspects of such cultural codes as namus (regulator of intracommunal and non-communal relationships), traditionalism (foundation of identity), polytheism (foundation of worldview), i.e. basic spiritual values of the peoples of Dagestan. Together they constitute a philosophical and ethical system that has evolved over centuries. The research identifies the fundamentals of ethnic culture and the regional cultural policy strategy considering the dominant values typical for traditional society.