Modern Models of Buddhism as a Social Institution in Buryatia, Kalmykia and Tuva

Abstract

In the sociocultural space of Russia, there are three main and independent Buddhist centers: Kalmyk, Buryat and Tuvan. An analysis of geopolitical landmarks, ideological position, and large religious organizations representing this faith in the region shows that three different models of Buddhism as a social institution have developed: globally oriented (Kalmykia), ethnocentric (Buryatia), and regionally oriented (Tuva).