Social and Regional Determinants of Cultural Consumption in Russia: Empirical Analysis on RLMS-HSE Data
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14515/monitoring.2025.3.2802Keywords:
cultural consumption, cultural goods, non-monetary deprivation, RLMS-HSE, regional inequalitiesAbstract
The paper studies the determinants associated with the frequency of attending cultural events (theatres, exhibitions, concerts, and cinema theatres) in Russia. The study bases on the data of the 22nd wave of the RLMS-HSE survey (2013, 17.9 thousand observations). Using econometric analysis, the author assesses the relationship between socio-demographic characteristics of households and the availability of cultural activities with involvement into cultural consumption.
The results prove the existence of social differentiation in cultural consumption in Russia. The main factors associated with involvement in cultural consumption are education, financial capabilities, and the availability of cultural infrastructure. Individual health status and presence of children in the household are also closely related to the frequency of attending cultural events. A high number of younger children in the household hinders cultural consumption only in terms of going to the cinema, while the presence of older children in the household increases the frequency of going to the theatre.
The main obstacles to participation in cultural life are lack of desire, of time, and limited availability of infrastructure. Financial difficulties and health problems also play a significant role, although their effect is smaller. An analysis of inclusion in cultural consumption by gender shows that women are more likely to face financial and health constraints, while men are more likely to have motivational and infrastructural reasons. Among young people, employment and geographic distance are key factors, while for older people, health issues are the main obstacle. People with low educational status tend to show no interest in cultural consumption, while those with higher education cite a lack of free time.
Acknowledgments. The article was prepared as part of the research work of the state assignment of RANEPA.
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