Despite the fact that the Old Belief totally rejected the “filth of novel
ties” both in religious sense and in everyday life, in business practices
it was the Old-Believers who introduced innovations and took an active
part in the modernization of Russian industry in the 18" — the first half
of the 20 centuries’. Russian entrepreneurs, Old Believers were the
first to introduce into their production facilities and family businesses
western technologies and innovations (imported machines and equip
ment, steam engines, etc.). Many Old Believers were the authors of
innovation projects (from the building of the first Russian steam engine,
railways and shipping companies to establishing banks and trading and
manufacturing companies). The practical nature of the Old Believers’
spirituality was manifested in its pronounced focus on entrepreneurial
values. This formed the basis for special Old Believers attitude towards
entrepreneurial activity and the formation of the spiritual concept of
Business. All these prove the high adoption potential of Old Believers,
their capacity for evolution in conditions of informational and cultural
instability.
At present time there is a motorcycle and tractor in every Ural Old
Believers’ yard; youth are interested in technical innovations. The
Father says with deep breath: “It is for the sake of need. How will we be
without them? But this is a sin, we must pray”". Thus, at the same time
they remain committed believers and strictly adhere to the principles of
Old Belief.
