Statistical Evaluation of Middle Class in Russia

Abstract

The arguments, whether there is a middle class in Russia, and, if it is, who can be deemed as its representatives, will probably never end. Center of discussion is situated at the merge of several disciplines. Scientists (representatives of economics, sociology, philosophy, etc.) view this problem through the prism of their knowledge – and, naturally, cannot reach the common explanation. This is normal, as different sciences have different indicators for evaluation and priorities for determining a middle class. In developed countries, middle class is an essential class, being the guarantor of social and political stability, legislator of norms of socio-economic and cultural behavior. Its representatives are characterized by independence and critical thinking, which facilitate the development of civil society and efficiency of state management. Having the role of main players in the state, investors, taxpayers, reproducing labor force, and bringing innovations into various spheres of activity, they ensure the increase of standards and quality of living of population through development of new spheres of activity in economy, through expansion of employment, modernization of functioning enterprises through development of new directions of activity, development of infrastructure necessary for modernization of state, creation of conditions for attraction and development of new resources, support for development of subjects of small and medium business through stimulation of entrepreneurial initiative, provision of sustainable and well-balanced development of economy in long-term. The larger the middle class, the better the sustainability of architecture of social order, which does not allow big conflicts between the rich and the poor. Its representatives, being the symbol of success, set the standards of consuming and are role models for many people, influencing mentality of the whole society and forming the ideas about forms of labor and leisure activity. The main duty of middle class in modern society is to facilitate the development and progress, be the bearer of social interests, cultural samples and values. Massiveness of middle class determines social stability and order in society. Still, at present, only one in seven citizen of Russia belongs to middle class. That’s why the problems of its formation, as well as perfection of its internal structure, are still very topical. The most favorable social conditions for the growth of middle class may be created only by development of country in the path of innovational economy with strong regulating influence of the state.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n3s6p125