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In case of autosomal genetics Hungarians are also close to Slavs as well and it doesn't make them Slavic. That's one of the reasons why I don't count genetics as part of Slavic term. Many people imagine we are close, that's why all post communist countries are called Eastern European. This simplification exists strongly in mind of many ordinary people.
Slavic identity was kind of reborn with pan-Slavic idea, especially in XIX century. It's popular mostly for people that think it could be used only for interests of their nation and that their issues would be the most important in that case. It simply doesn't work like that imo.
We can be close by culture in meaning where there are no other groups close to us. On the other hand it doesn't mean there are no differences for example if I am not wrong only Serbs celebrate Slava. Even culture between regions is different, just let's look on East Poland vs Silesia. The differences exist not only because some forced Slavs to split, it was also aware decision that for example Ukrainians feel different to Russians etc
About looking to West, every country in the world used to look on America and takes all cultural influence from there in matters of pop culture but also "deep culture" just because it has power(yet). When China will take more and more power it will get more attention what can be seen already. It's natural we try to follow those who have power
Of course it's just my opinion, I hope I made it clear what is the reasoning of my thinking, it's the only aim of this reply. Sorry for long post
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