<< >> ^

PLT2340/3340

Contemporary Russian politics: visions and institutions in conflict

Peter Lentini

8 points
* 3 hours per week
* Second semester
* Clayton

Objectives On successful completion of this subject students should develop an understanding of the political, historical and social contexts in which contemporary Russia finds itself; enhance their analytical skills and critical thinking in relation to major concepts, theories, events and processes pertaining to Russia's transition from communist party rule; strengthen their conceptual and empirical knowledge of regime change, social problems and institution building in modern conditions; achieve an introductory-intermediate level knowledge of the institutions, personalities and elites playing active roles in contemporary Russian politics.

Synopsis This subject identifies 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 and departure within them. The teaching matter is divided into sections focusing on political culture, institutions, national identity, elites and personalities, civil society and social problems. 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 second year Class paper (1500 words): 20%
* Essay (2500 words): 40%
* Examination (2 hours): 40%

Assessment third year Class paper (1500 words): 20%
* Essay (2500 words): 40%
* Examination (2 hours): 40%
* Third-year students will be required to answer exam questions of a higher conceptual standard than those required of second-year students.

Recommended texts

Lentini P (ed.) Elections and political order in Russia: The implications of the 1993 elections to the Federal Assembly Central European U P, 1995

Sakwa R Russian politics and society Routledge, 1993

Steele J Eternal Russia Faber and Faber, 1994

White S After Gorbachev CUP, 1993

White S and others The politics of transition: Shaping a post-Soviet future CUP, 1993


<< >> ^
Handbook Contents | Faculty Handbooks | Monash University
Published by Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168
Copyright © Monash University 1996 - All Rights Reserved - Caution
Authorised by the Academic Registrar December 1996