Okorokova I. "Ukrainian neopaganism as a social phenomenon (1991-2011)"

Object of the research is social processes that influenced the origin, advancement and development of the Ukrainian neopaganism movement. Aim of the research is to make a complex analysis of the origin, development and dynamics of the Ukrainian neopaganism movement, its ideological and organizational peculiarities, social structure of neopagans and their place in the society. Subject of the research is Ukrainian neopaganism phenomenon in 1991 – 2011: social base of neopaganism, its place in the interfaith relations, its perception by others, social activity of neopagans. The methods of research: analytical, synthetic, historic-genetic, historic-comparative, problem-chronological. The results of research and novelty: the complex analysis of ideology and social structure genesis and transformations of the neopaganism movement in the Independent Ukraine is made. The connections between neopaganism genesis and peculiar stages of Ukrainian nation building and cultural rise are proved. Social base of neopagan organizations is structured. The perception of neopaganism by Ukrainian society is analyzed. The place of neopagans in the interfaith relations is found out. Implementation of the results is possible in specialized historical and religious studies, in teaching in higher education establishments, in analysis of future perspectives of Ukrainian neopaganism development and forecast of possible problems on religious basis.