Kotlyarova K. Superstitiones in the socio-political practices of ancient Rome (I century BC - III century AD).

Thesis is dedicated to the study of superstitiones in the socio-political practices of ancient Rome (I century BC - III century AD). Analyzed the characteristics of the Roman religious system of this period, as well as the importance of religion as a significant political tool. It was established that superstitiones - is a deviation in normal religious activities, exaggeration performed the rituals, ignorance measures, superstition, magic. In the socio-political context, the concept superstitiones include, firstly, to the "barbaric" religion of the people, who weren't part of the Empire, or those who have recently entered it. Second, almost all newly created non-traditional beliefs, which were rejected by conservative sectors of society and were not recognized by the imperial power. Superstitiones often opposed by the customs of ancestors (mores maiorum). Use of the term superstitiones was dismissive way to refer to what proved excessive, dishonest, sometimes new and unfamiliar, sometimes really strange forms of religious activity. Revealed the features of using of superstitiones by Roman social and political elite to self-determination towards province and its elite, as well as to persons with low social or gender status in Roman society. Besides, the term was used for the depreciation of religious practices of foreigners and provincials. It was established that superstitiones was used as auxiliary circuits in a power struggle or political intrigue, as well as a means of manipulation in extreme situations.