Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Synopsis The objectives of this course are to identify the major political and social developments in the former Soviet Union and the contemporary Russian Federation from 1985 to the present and to seek patterns of continuity and contradiction within them. Therefore, some of the major questions that can be asked include `Are Russia's present difficulties connected with its long history?' `Are Russia's problems a result of its communist past?' `What features does Russia share with other countries that have attempted transitions from authoritarian or totalitarian rule?' Major themes include national problems, elites in politics, the role of parties and elections, institutional relationships, current social problems and the military in politics.
Assessment Class paper (1500 words): 25% + Essay (2500 words): 45% + Examination (2 hours): 30%