The Theoretical and Methodological Foundations of the Concept of Ethnos

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the theoretical and methodological foundations of the concept of ethnos. The issue of ethnos has always been a subject of debate in historical anthropology and ethnology, occupying a central place in understanding national identity within the social sciences. The study elaborates on Lev Gumilyov’s theory of “passionate waves” and presents the process of ethnos formation under the influence of biological, social, and cultural factors. Furthermore, modern approaches such as primordialism (essentialism), instrumentalism, and constructivism are comparatively analyzed, with attention given to their strengths and limitations in the study of ethnic phenomena. The article also discusses Soviet national policy, the artificial division of Turkestan’s peoples, and the subsequent reformation of ethnic identities. Additionally, it explores the processes of restoring ethnic unity and common Turkic values in the post-independence era. Overall, the article offers a new perspective on ethnic identity, grounded in the historical roots of ethnos theory, its theoretical schools, and the Central Asian experience.