The phenomenon of social institutions of the Alevi-Bektashi in the context of virtue ethics

Abstract

The article is devoted to revealing the content and functions of the phenomenоn of social institutions in Alevism-Bektashism. Attention is drawn to such phenomenons as “kirvelik”, which has similar features to the Ukrainian “institution of nepotism”; the phenomenon of “musahiplik”, which is compared to spiritual brotherhood; and “dyushkyunlyuk”, which can be interpreted as “institution of indulgence in pleasures”. The study clarified the difference between the concepts of social institute and social institution. Attention was focused on the definition of the “institute of kinship”, which ensures cooperation between people in one system, which determines some relationships, roles in society and causes the emergence of certain models of behavior. It was noted that Alevi-Bektashi, which is subject to a moral code based on the concept of “adeb” ادب  which means: decency, tact, rule, law; (the Turks used this word as an abbreviation, but for Turkish words, where the Arabic ا – tur. el – hands, د - dil - tongue, ب – bel – waist. Authors' note) control over one's hands, tongue and waist. It was emphasized that subcultural groups are able to resist the "big society", which created a strong hierarchy and a reliable system of norms. The Alevis also chose their own path and developed their own system, which is an alternative or "anti-society" in the system of the "big society". Purpose of the study: analysis of the phenomenon of Alevi-Bektashi social institutions, which have a regulatory function of social life and ensure the emergence of desired attitudes and behavior in interpersonal relationships. Methodology: historical and philosophical analysis; general scientific methods of analysis and synthesis; axiological approach - assessment of phenomena, processes and situations from the standpoint of a value system; praxeological approach – creates formulas for organizing interpersonal relationships; ethical approach - what meaning, what internal necessity does a person see in making certain moral decisions.

It was concluded that the belief system of the Alevi-Bektashi`s, like other belief systems, in addition to theological issues and instructions, creates formulas for organizing interpersonal relationships. It has been proven that groups whose lives are not under threat are less inclined to form quasi-family ties with people from outside, therefore, since historical times, people have sought to protect themselves by establishing quasi-family ties with people of different religions and ethnic identities.

It was also noted that morality remains a component element that affects the development of the entire system of society. Today, more than ever, it is an actual element due to the contradictions that arise between universal human ideal ideas about the moral qualities of a person and those means of manipulation that often make actions immoral.