How do we imagine ideal relationships—with a loved one, with our parents, with our children? How do we want to work and rest? Why do we call some people “friends” and others just “acquaintances”? What causes us pain, what do we speak about openly, and what do we keep to ourselves? Why do we sometimes hold back tears, and other times almost force ourselves to cry?
As a sociologist, I study how social norms, expectations, and inequalities shape our inner world: our feelings, choices, fears, and hopes.
Sociology isn’t just about “society as a whole”—it’s about real people’s lives in context. It’s about why we’re not always as free as we try to be ourselves. I help people see themselves in a new light—not as isolated stories, but as part of a larger field shaped by complex, often invisible rules.
When we begin to notice these rules, a lot becomes clearer:
- what limits us, what resources we have,
- which feelings we’re allowed to express, and which we suppress,
- and how we might begin to rethink all of this—if we want to live differently.
Books, essays, long reads — my work is about emotions and the invisible rules that shape them. What kind of love do we long for? How do we choose partners? What do we expect from intimacy — and from ourselves? I explore how our feelings are formed not just inside us, but in the societies we live in. I publish in English, Russian and German.
My publications
I offer one-on-one sessions and group workshops designed to help you look at your life as a sociologist — and notice the hidden norms, roles, and expectations that shape how we feel, act, and relate to others often without us even realizing it. I apply sociological imagination as a tool to find new solutions to old problems.
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I collaborate with international research centers and interdisciplinary teams that explore emotions from all angles — from neuroscience to philosophy. This helps me understand feelings not just as personal experiences, but as part of broader cultural and historical dynamics. I translate this academic knowledge into accessible formats.
CRC "Affective Societies" (Freie Universität)
I curate and host public conversations about the social issues that shape our everyday lives. I work across a wide range of settings — from academic institutions to civil society, from media platforms to business events. I also host podcasts in English and Russian, where I explore how feelings, norms, and power intersect in the world around us.
My podcasts and events
I give talks and run workshops at universities, festivals, and online schools — from German academic programs to independent Russian education platforms. What matters most to me is being understood. I try to find a language where academic insight meets everyday experience — clear, grounded, and open to conversation.
My courses
Need an expert on emotions in today’s world?
Whether it’s about intimacy, politics, the marketplace or social media — I’ll be happy to support your project, speak at your event, or contribute a piece to your publication. I write, edit, speak and moderate in three languages: English, German and Russian.
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I was born in Russia and aside from a PhD from Warwick University (Great Britain), I also hold a degree from St. Petersburg State University. I have written extensively in Russian, gave talks and published with independent platforms. However, I want to state clearly that I have never supported the actions of Vladimir Putin’s government. I have consistently and openly spoken out against the war in Ukraine, the suppression of free speech, and other violations of human rights. My Russian-language books were published by Individuum, an independent publishing house now facing persecution by the Russian authorities for its commitment to freedom of expression. All my Russian teaching was done through non-governmental or private, independent educational initiatives committed to academic freedom and open dialogue.
I am fortunate to live outside of Russia, which allows me to express my views openly. I stand in solidarity with Russian journalists, scholars, educators and civil society who continue their work inside the country — often anonymously and under great risk.
