The system of values as a factor of ethnic identity preservation by mennonites of Western Siberia (exemplified by inhabitants of Ananievka village in Altai region)

Problems of formation and maintenance of ethnic identity stir interest in the modern academic community. In this article we study system of values of the Mennonite community in the village Ananievka in Altay Territory as a factor of maintenance of their ethnic identity. Based on the in-depth interviews conducted during the field research in Ananievka in 2014 we emphasized the value baseline mentioned by the respondents. Respect to the elders, diligence, self-control, neatness, sense of justice are those life values which Mennonites nurture from the childhood. “I am Mennonite ” self-identity is still pertinent. Behavioral norms, ethic laws, life values are the powerful factor of consolidation of Mennonite community in Western Siberia.