“Tell Me What the Other Eats, and I Will Tell You What is Wrong with You”: A Webometric Analysis of Russian Perceptions on the Alimentary Aspect of the Other's Image in 2023

Abstract

This article addresses the pressing issue of perceiving other cultures and nationalities in the context of globalization and internet communications. The authors focus on a webometric study, employing data analysis methods for grouping and investigating markers that reflect the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of models representing the Other in the digital space. The study aims to identify current trends and reactions of internet users to the diversity of alimentary preferences of various ethnic groups, thereby providing a deeper understanding of the dynamics of public opinion and stereotypes. The research extensively analyzes how perceptions of cultural alimentary features and traditions of different peoples are formed and transformed in the modern information space. It notes the significant influence of search queries and virtual interactions on the formation and alteration of the images of the Other in public consciousness. The authors discuss the implications of these trends for intercultural interaction and present conclusions that can be applied in further research related to the cultural and social aspects of perceiving ethnic groups. The findings of the study will be of interest not only to specialists in the field of intercultural communication, but also to a wider audience seeking to better understand the dynamics of how different cultures are perceived in today's information society.