Authors : Natalia N. Glukhova, Rodion I. Chuzaev, Elina V. Guseva, Timothy Riese and Galina E. Shkalina
Abstract: This study shows a system of ethnic values in Mari personal names based on the results of a multi-sided investigation. It was carried out with the help of a complex technique applied to 7,525 anthroponyms from the Dictionary of Mari Personal Names compiled and published by S. Chernykh in 1995. Mari anthroponyms have never before been the object of research. They represent an almost forgotten part of Mari traditional culture as at present they are rarely used among the Maris. The process of investigation includes several steps. The most important of these is the semantic analysis which helps to discern twenty one values united into four groups showing the most appreciated phenomena of life as expressed in the analyzed anthroponyms. Quantitative data evaluation singles out a dominant group by a dichotomous method applying the principle of simple majority employed in mathematical statistics. The same technique divides the other values into complementary, auxiliary and insignificant groups. The results of an investigation into ethnic axiology are also shown graphically. The main idea underlying the names is to ensure the future conflict-free existence owing to one’s health, vigor and good relationship within a family and a clan.
Natalia N. Glukhova, Rodion I. Chuzaev, Elina V. Guseva, Timothy Riese and Galina E. Shkalina, 2016. What Can Ethnic Values in Mari Anthroponyms Teach Us?. The Social Sciences, 11: 1813-1819.