MONASH UNIVERSITY FACULTY HANDBOOKS

Arts Undergraduate Handbook 1996

Published by Monash University

Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia

Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996


PLT2340

Russia since 1985: issues and institutions in conflict

Peter Lentini

8 points + 3 hours per week + First semester + Clayton

Synopsis The objectives of this subject are to identify the major political and social developments in the former Soviet Union and the contemporary Russian Federation from 1985-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): 20% + Essay (2500 words): 40% + Examination (2 hours): 40%

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