Self-organization of population: conceptual foundations of formation and social practice

Abstract

The socio-structural changes taking place in the Russian society have shown that the successful implementation of reforms is impossible without active civic participation. We have to state that the transformation is largely hampered by the civic passivity of Russians, their weak involvement in solving problems at the place of residence. Residents, experiencing difficulties, shift the solution of problems to local governments, which, in turn, need public initiatives at the local level in conditions of limited budget funds. In this regard, the identification of conditions that encourage citizens to voluntarily participate in public life, the organization of collective interaction aimed at improving the quality of life, becomes very significant. The article analyzes neighborhood practices as a social potential for the formation of larger resources. It has been established that conflict, as a contradiction between desired and reality, is an incentive for spontaneous social contact, in the process of interaction, which acquires the character of self-organization of residents at the place of residence. Small groups are indicated to be more effective than the large groups. The motives for participation of individuals in achieving the public good are considered. Analysis of the data obtained during the focus groups made it possible to formulate the following conclusions: spontaneous social contact occurs when a conflict situation occurs; the condition for productive joint actions is the real possibility of resolving contradiction and changing the resource, as well as the prospect of obtaining its own benefit - material or reputational; cooperation and support for civic initiatives requires information support and is impossible without support and approval from the authorities.