HEROISM AS A SOCIAL PHENOMENON: FEATURES OF SYMBOLIC REFLECTION

Abstract

The social role of symbolism is studied as one that gives political life and political actions a special meaning. On this basis, the phenomenon of «heroism» in the structure of the symbolic policy of the state is considered. The essence and functions of symbols of heroization, the mechanism and methods of its symbolization and introduction into public consciousness are analyzed. The significance of creating a «hero image» as a way of politically conditioned use of social activity is revealed. The historical origins of the «hero image» and the factors of its influence on sociopolitical processes are shown using examples, including the function of preserving and producing nationally oriented values, as well as speculation in order to ensure the dominance of certain political forces. It is proved that the formation of heroic symbols is one of the key ideological instruments of influence on the psychology of citizens in general and at the same time is a phenomenon of mass, largely mythologized consciousness. The process of forming heroic symbols and types of heroic acts, and the features of their use by political propaganda are analyzed. The specifics of the formation and symbolic representation of the «hero image», its place in the historical memory of modern society are reflected. The possibilities and prospects of interpreting the phenomenon of heroism in modern Ukraine, taking into account the realities of the Russian-Ukrainian war, are revealed.