Sociological analysis of biographical interviews as a method of studying the mechanisms of regional Siberian identity formation

The article presents the methodological approach to studying mechanisms of formation and premises of actualization of Siberian regional identity. The methodology combines two approaches: actionist approach developed by authors for studying identities in settler societies and narrative identity approach. It is shown that whereas actionist approach can be applied to investigate mechanisms of formation and contexts of Siberian identity actualization through studying various collective and individual activities in the region, the narrative identity approach allows to analyze important aspects of Siberian identity construction linked with individual biographies and family stories. The combination of two approaches allows to present Siberian identity holistically in the context of informant’s life story.