Jeffrey Kahn
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199246991
- eISBN:
- 9780191599606
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199246998.001.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
This book examines the development of Russia's current federal system of government from its Soviet origins, through Mikhail Gorbachev's reforms, to the presidencies of Boris Yeltsin and the early ...
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This book examines the development of Russia's current federal system of government from its Soviet origins, through Mikhail Gorbachev's reforms, to the presidencies of Boris Yeltsin and the early years of Vladimir Putin. The theoretical relationship between democracy, law, and federalism is examined with a focus on its application to the study of post‐authoritarian state systems. Federal institutions shape political agendas in the constituent units of a federation just as much as those units influence the shape of the federal whole. Case studies focus on Russia's 21 ethnic ‘republics’ (out of 89 units in a complicated multi‐level federal hierarchy) using previously unpublished primary source materials, including official documents and interviews with key participants on a variety of institutional levels.Less
This book examines the development of Russia's current federal system of government from its Soviet origins, through Mikhail Gorbachev's reforms, to the presidencies of Boris Yeltsin and the early years of Vladimir Putin. The theoretical relationship between democracy, law, and federalism is examined with a focus on its application to the study of post‐authoritarian state systems. Federal institutions shape political agendas in the constituent units of a federation just as much as those units influence the shape of the federal whole. Case studies focus on Russia's 21 ethnic ‘republics’ (out of 89 units in a complicated multi‐level federal hierarchy) using previously unpublished primary source materials, including official documents and interviews with key participants on a variety of institutional levels.
Sudhir Kakar and John Munder Ross
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- September 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198072560
- eISBN:
- 9780199082124
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198072560.001.0001
- Subject:
- Literature, Film, Media, and Cultural Studies
First published in 1986, this ground-breaking work addresses two complex and very human emotions—love and erotic passion—as these appear in the great love stories of the world. Starting with the ...
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First published in 1986, this ground-breaking work addresses two complex and very human emotions—love and erotic passion—as these appear in the great love stories of the world. Starting with the story of Romeo and Juliet and its roots in European Christianity, the authors uncover hidden depths of cultural and universal significance in famous romantic tales of the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent—‘Layla and Majnun’, ‘Heer and Ranjha’, ‘Sohni and Mahinwal’, ‘Vis and Ramin’, and ‘Radha and Krishna’. Moving westward again, the authors look at the Greek myth of Oedipus, the Celtic saga of Tristan and Isolde, the tragic drama of Hamlet, the legend of Phaedra and Hippolytus, and a contemporary handling of the love theme in the writings of Vladimir Nabokov. With each love story including within its gambit all of love’s paradoxical associations and radii—from conquest and possession to surrender, sensuality and sensuousness, time held still in a poised nostalgia, and the loss of visual, distal perceptions in another mode of knowing—this book elaborates on the phenomenology and what it calls the ontogeny of love, sex, and danger. In this second edition, the authors revisit their earlier assertions about romantic and erotic love in the light of contemporary psychoanalysis and literary theory.Less
First published in 1986, this ground-breaking work addresses two complex and very human emotions—love and erotic passion—as these appear in the great love stories of the world. Starting with the story of Romeo and Juliet and its roots in European Christianity, the authors uncover hidden depths of cultural and universal significance in famous romantic tales of the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent—‘Layla and Majnun’, ‘Heer and Ranjha’, ‘Sohni and Mahinwal’, ‘Vis and Ramin’, and ‘Radha and Krishna’. Moving westward again, the authors look at the Greek myth of Oedipus, the Celtic saga of Tristan and Isolde, the tragic drama of Hamlet, the legend of Phaedra and Hippolytus, and a contemporary handling of the love theme in the writings of Vladimir Nabokov. With each love story including within its gambit all of love’s paradoxical associations and radii—from conquest and possession to surrender, sensuality and sensuousness, time held still in a poised nostalgia, and the loss of visual, distal perceptions in another mode of knowing—this book elaborates on the phenomenology and what it calls the ontogeny of love, sex, and danger. In this second edition, the authors revisit their earlier assertions about romantic and erotic love in the light of contemporary psychoanalysis and literary theory.
Alex Pravda (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- February 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199276141
- eISBN:
- 9780191603341
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199276145.001.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
This book features a collection of essays on Soviet and post-Soviet Russian politics. The essays focus on the leadership of President Vladimir Putin, his policies, how he compares with his ...
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This book features a collection of essays on Soviet and post-Soviet Russian politics. The essays focus on the leadership of President Vladimir Putin, his policies, how he compares with his predecessors, as well as changes in Russia’s political landscape. This volume is a present from colleagues and friends to Archie Brown on the occasion of his retirement as Professor of Politics at the University of Oxford and Professorial Fellow of St. Antony’s College. Brown has gained international recognition for his studies on the politics of Communist and post-Communist states, particularly Soviet and post-Soviet Russia. A bibliography of Brown’s complete works from the mid-1960s to the present is included.Less
This book features a collection of essays on Soviet and post-Soviet Russian politics. The essays focus on the leadership of President Vladimir Putin, his policies, how he compares with his predecessors, as well as changes in Russia’s political landscape. This volume is a present from colleagues and friends to Archie Brown on the occasion of his retirement as Professor of Politics at the University of Oxford and Professorial Fellow of St. Antony’s College. Brown has gained international recognition for his studies on the politics of Communist and post-Communist states, particularly Soviet and post-Soviet Russia. A bibliography of Brown’s complete works from the mid-1960s to the present is included.
Jeffrey Kahn
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199246991
- eISBN:
- 9780191599606
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199246998.003.0008
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
The first year of Putin's presidency resulted in the most concerted and fundamental shake‐up of federal relations since 1993. Putin ended the bilateral treaty process and vowed to create a ...
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The first year of Putin's presidency resulted in the most concerted and fundamental shake‐up of federal relations since 1993. Putin ended the bilateral treaty process and vowed to create a ‘Dictatorship of Law’. Putin's reforms are examined in detail, including the creation of presidential envoys (polpredy) and federal districts, the quasi‐judicial use of presidential decrees (ukazy), reform of the Council of the Federation, growing federal influence of regional executives and legislatures, and local self‐government. These dramatic changes led to the reform of republican constitutions and a new stage in federal‐regional relations.Less
The first year of Putin's presidency resulted in the most concerted and fundamental shake‐up of federal relations since 1993. Putin ended the bilateral treaty process and vowed to create a ‘Dictatorship of Law’. Putin's reforms are examined in detail, including the creation of presidential envoys (polpredy) and federal districts, the quasi‐judicial use of presidential decrees (ukazy), reform of the Council of the Federation, growing federal influence of regional executives and legislatures, and local self‐government. These dramatic changes led to the reform of republican constitutions and a new stage in federal‐regional relations.
Alex Pravda
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- February 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199276141
- eISBN:
- 9780191603341
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199276145.003.0002
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
This chapter examines the changing leadership of Vladimir Putin. Most observers initially saw Putin as a transactional leader; with his practical and technocratic approach to fixing problems, he ...
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This chapter examines the changing leadership of Vladimir Putin. Most observers initially saw Putin as a transactional leader; with his practical and technocratic approach to fixing problems, he appeared more a prudent manager than political leader. However, as he moved towards his second term, his increased assertion of executive powers has prompted some observers to revise their optimism regarding Russia’s prospects for democracy, viewing Putin’s actions as a possible turn towards dictatorial rule.Less
This chapter examines the changing leadership of Vladimir Putin. Most observers initially saw Putin as a transactional leader; with his practical and technocratic approach to fixing problems, he appeared more a prudent manager than political leader. However, as he moved towards his second term, his increased assertion of executive powers has prompted some observers to revise their optimism regarding Russia’s prospects for democracy, viewing Putin’s actions as a possible turn towards dictatorial rule.
George W. Breslauer
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- February 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199276141
- eISBN:
- 9780191603341
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199276145.003.0003
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
This chapter examines the leadership of Vladimir Putin from the perspective of consolidative regimes in Soviet and post-Soviet history. It focuses on the New Economic Policy from 1921-27, period of ...
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This chapter examines the leadership of Vladimir Putin from the perspective of consolidative regimes in Soviet and post-Soviet history. It focuses on the New Economic Policy from 1921-27, period of ‘high Stalinism’, Brezhnev’s consolidative regime, and Yeltsin’s consolidative phase. It argues that Putin seeks — with varying levels of success and failure — to simultaneously liberalize much of the economy and to integrate it into global capitalism, while pushing the political system back towards greater authoritarianism, greater central control over regions, breaking the power of selected economic tycoons, and ensuring that Moscow retains dominant influence over the energy and resources sector.Less
This chapter examines the leadership of Vladimir Putin from the perspective of consolidative regimes in Soviet and post-Soviet history. It focuses on the New Economic Policy from 1921-27, period of ‘high Stalinism’, Brezhnev’s consolidative regime, and Yeltsin’s consolidative phase. It argues that Putin seeks — with varying levels of success and failure — to simultaneously liberalize much of the economy and to integrate it into global capitalism, while pushing the political system back towards greater authoritarianism, greater central control over regions, breaking the power of selected economic tycoons, and ensuring that Moscow retains dominant influence over the energy and resources sector.
Leslie Holmes
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- February 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199276141
- eISBN:
- 9780191603341
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199276145.003.0005
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
This chapter examines recent developments in Russian leadership politics within the context of post-Communist leadership and state-building. It argues that those who hoped Putin would turn Russia ...
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This chapter examines recent developments in Russian leadership politics within the context of post-Communist leadership and state-building. It argues that those who hoped Putin would turn Russia into a strong state underestimated the scale of the task, while those who believed that Putin was inherently authoritarian underestimated the need for strong leadership in Russia. A customized, relativistic, and dynamic approach to Russia’s transition is needed, rather than one based on Western ideals, expectations, and conditions.Less
This chapter examines recent developments in Russian leadership politics within the context of post-Communist leadership and state-building. It argues that those who hoped Putin would turn Russia into a strong state underestimated the scale of the task, while those who believed that Putin was inherently authoritarian underestimated the need for strong leadership in Russia. A customized, relativistic, and dynamic approach to Russia’s transition is needed, rather than one based on Western ideals, expectations, and conditions.
Paul Chaisty
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- February 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199276141
- eISBN:
- 9780191603341
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199276145.003.0007
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
The relationship between the parliament and president has become more majoritarian under the Putin presidency, giving Putin a basis of political support not enjoyed by his predecessor. This chapter ...
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The relationship between the parliament and president has become more majoritarian under the Putin presidency, giving Putin a basis of political support not enjoyed by his predecessor. This chapter examines the partisan, institutional, and policy effects of this move towards majoritarianism. Despite the change in the nature of inter-branch relations, the executive’s dominance of the legislative sphere is not absolute. Putin remains constrained by the particularistic interests that hampered Yeltsin’s presidency. Nonetheless, the conflicts on legislation that previously spilled out on the floor of the assembly are now largely confined to the government’s party, United Russia.Less
The relationship between the parliament and president has become more majoritarian under the Putin presidency, giving Putin a basis of political support not enjoyed by his predecessor. This chapter examines the partisan, institutional, and policy effects of this move towards majoritarianism. Despite the change in the nature of inter-branch relations, the executive’s dominance of the legislative sphere is not absolute. Putin remains constrained by the particularistic interests that hampered Yeltsin’s presidency. Nonetheless, the conflicts on legislation that previously spilled out on the floor of the assembly are now largely confined to the government’s party, United Russia.
Stephen Whitefield
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- February 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199276141
- eISBN:
- 9780191603341
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199276145.003.0008
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
This chapter examines how and why ordinary Russians evaluate their presidents and their political system, and support Vladimir Putin and others electorally. The results highlight the ambiguities ...
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This chapter examines how and why ordinary Russians evaluate their presidents and their political system, and support Vladimir Putin and others electorally. The results highlight the ambiguities about Putin and his democracy. Those who support Putin tend to be more committed to democratic norms than other Russians. There are Russians who favour leadership with a ‘strong hand’, but are not drawn to Putin. Thus, Putin may be faced with a difficult and untimely political choice — between his own supporters and his tendency to pursue anti-democratic policies.Less
This chapter examines how and why ordinary Russians evaluate their presidents and their political system, and support Vladimir Putin and others electorally. The results highlight the ambiguities about Putin and his democracy. Those who support Putin tend to be more committed to democratic norms than other Russians. There are Russians who favour leadership with a ‘strong hand’, but are not drawn to Putin. Thus, Putin may be faced with a difficult and untimely political choice — between his own supporters and his tendency to pursue anti-democratic policies.
Eugene Huskey
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- February 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199276141
- eISBN:
- 9780191603341
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199276145.003.0009
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
This chapter discusses the emergence of a new form of patronage politics under the Putin presidency. Patronage politics is not limited to the political appointees who serve at the pleasure of elected ...
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This chapter discusses the emergence of a new form of patronage politics under the Putin presidency. Patronage politics is not limited to the political appointees who serve at the pleasure of elected leaders, often as senior staff members or management cadres in the core executive. Elected officials, permanent civil servants, and leaders of business and non-government organizations are also subject to a spoils system that allows federal and regional leaders to influence personnel decisions in ways that endanger political pluralism.Less
This chapter discusses the emergence of a new form of patronage politics under the Putin presidency. Patronage politics is not limited to the political appointees who serve at the pleasure of elected leaders, often as senior staff members or management cadres in the core executive. Elected officials, permanent civil servants, and leaders of business and non-government organizations are also subject to a spoils system that allows federal and regional leaders to influence personnel decisions in ways that endanger political pluralism.
William Tompson
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- February 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199276141
- eISBN:
- 9780191603341
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199276145.003.0010
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
One of Vladimir Putin’s primary objectives as president was to re-establish the authority of the Russian state. He sought to strengthen the presidency by redefining the Kremlin’s relations with the ...
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One of Vladimir Putin’s primary objectives as president was to re-establish the authority of the Russian state. He sought to strengthen the presidency by redefining the Kremlin’s relations with the Federal Assembly, the regional elite, and the so-called oligarchs — wealthy tycoons who dominated Russian politics under Boris Yeltsin. This chapter examines how Putin went about pursuing his objective. It argues that no stable accommodation between Putin and oligarchs was possible, because both sides have strong incentives not to uphold terms of any deal.Less
One of Vladimir Putin’s primary objectives as president was to re-establish the authority of the Russian state. He sought to strengthen the presidency by redefining the Kremlin’s relations with the Federal Assembly, the regional elite, and the so-called oligarchs — wealthy tycoons who dominated Russian politics under Boris Yeltsin. This chapter examines how Putin went about pursuing his objective. It argues that no stable accommodation between Putin and oligarchs was possible, because both sides have strong incentives not to uphold terms of any deal.
Neil Melvin
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- February 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199276141
- eISBN:
- 9780191603341
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199276145.003.0011
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
Putin’s reform of the Russian Federation can be viewed as both promoting and restricting democracy. While moves to challenge the democracy of Russia’s regions can be seen as a positive step, ...
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Putin’s reform of the Russian Federation can be viewed as both promoting and restricting democracy. While moves to challenge the democracy of Russia’s regions can be seen as a positive step, considerable doubts remain about whether the reforms involved gains in terms of democracy and effectiveness. Beyond increased stability, there is little evidence that the regional reforms fundamentally altered the networks of political and economic relationships that underpinned regional activism and the non-democratic regimes of many regions in the 1990s.Less
Putin’s reform of the Russian Federation can be viewed as both promoting and restricting democracy. While moves to challenge the democracy of Russia’s regions can be seen as a positive step, considerable doubts remain about whether the reforms involved gains in terms of democracy and effectiveness. Beyond increased stability, there is little evidence that the regional reforms fundamentally altered the networks of political and economic relationships that underpinned regional activism and the non-democratic regimes of many regions in the 1990s.
Lilia Shevtsova
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- February 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199276141
- eISBN:
- 9780191603341
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199276145.003.0012
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
This chapter examines Putin’s efforts to strengthen the state, which subjects society and individuals to its will. It argues that by cancelling out the democratic achievements of the Gorbachev and ...
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This chapter examines Putin’s efforts to strengthen the state, which subjects society and individuals to its will. It argues that by cancelling out the democratic achievements of the Gorbachev and Yeltsin years, Putin’s new rules have taken Russia back to the point from which it tried to move forward in the 1980s. In short, Putin’s leadership has traditionalist elements that negate the transformational paradigm.Less
This chapter examines Putin’s efforts to strengthen the state, which subjects society and individuals to its will. It argues that by cancelling out the democratic achievements of the Gorbachev and Yeltsin years, Putin’s new rules have taken Russia back to the point from which it tried to move forward in the 1980s. In short, Putin’s leadership has traditionalist elements that negate the transformational paradigm.
Andrei Grachev
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- February 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199276141
- eISBN:
- 9780191603341
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199276145.003.0013
- Subject:
- Political Science, Russian Politics
This chapter examines the foreign policies of Vladimir Putin. A ‘Putin Doctrine’ has emerged in at least two main spheres: in Moscow’s behaviour towards former Soviet republics — the new states that ...
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This chapter examines the foreign policies of Vladimir Putin. A ‘Putin Doctrine’ has emerged in at least two main spheres: in Moscow’s behaviour towards former Soviet republics — the new states that make up Russia’s ‘near abroad’; and the changing tone of Russia’s relations with the West, with important nuances distinguishing its Moscow’s policy towards the US and its dealing with Europe. Its policies towards China, Japan, and the revival of any kind of global strategy remained underdeveloped.Less
This chapter examines the foreign policies of Vladimir Putin. A ‘Putin Doctrine’ has emerged in at least two main spheres: in Moscow’s behaviour towards former Soviet republics — the new states that make up Russia’s ‘near abroad’; and the changing tone of Russia’s relations with the West, with important nuances distinguishing its Moscow’s policy towards the US and its dealing with Europe. Its policies towards China, Japan, and the revival of any kind of global strategy remained underdeveloped.
Ivo Samson
- Published in print:
- 2001
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199244096
- eISBN:
- 9780191600371
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/019924409X.003.0014
- Subject:
- Political Science, Democratization
Shows the relative failure of Western pressure aimed at improving the democratic record of successive Slovak governments led by the former Prime Minister Vladimir Mečiar. The chapter points to ...
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Shows the relative failure of Western pressure aimed at improving the democratic record of successive Slovak governments led by the former Prime Minister Vladimir Mečiar. The chapter points to several factors that contributed to the ineffectiveness of Western influence. Firstly, the manner in which Slovakia achieved independence created unfavourable conditions for its democratic consolidation. The division of Czechoslovakia was accomplished against the will of the majority of Slovaks and officially presented as a rejection of rapid and radical transformation. Secondly, a new proud and insecure State tried to assert its independence of all external actors. Western pressure was often considered as alien to Slovak culture and in conflict with Slovak national interest. Thirdly, the former Prime Minister, Vladimir Mečiar, misread Western determination to bring about democratic reforms in Slovakia. It was wrongly believed that regardless of its many democratic flaws, Slovakia would soon become a member of the European Union and NATO, simply because of its unique geostrategic importance and decent economic performance. Bratislava thought that allowing free and relatively fair elections in Slovakia would be enough to satisfy Western actors. However, the West wanted Slovakia to embrace a Western‐type of liberal constitutionalism before considering its possible membership in the EU and NATO. Overall, Slovakia's misperception of its geopolitical uniqueness and paradoxes of its domestic political development led to serious misunderstandings about Western responses.Less
Shows the relative failure of Western pressure aimed at improving the democratic record of successive Slovak governments led by the former Prime Minister Vladimir Mečiar. The chapter points to several factors that contributed to the ineffectiveness of Western influence. Firstly, the manner in which Slovakia achieved independence created unfavourable conditions for its democratic consolidation. The division of Czechoslovakia was accomplished against the will of the majority of Slovaks and officially presented as a rejection of rapid and radical transformation. Secondly, a new proud and insecure State tried to assert its independence of all external actors. Western pressure was often considered as alien to Slovak culture and in conflict with Slovak national interest. Thirdly, the former Prime Minister, Vladimir Mečiar, misread Western determination to bring about democratic reforms in Slovakia. It was wrongly believed that regardless of its many democratic flaws, Slovakia would soon become a member of the European Union and NATO, simply because of its unique geostrategic importance and decent economic performance. Bratislava thought that allowing free and relatively fair elections in Slovakia would be enough to satisfy Western actors. However, the West wanted Slovakia to embrace a Western‐type of liberal constitutionalism before considering its possible membership in the EU and NATO. Overall, Slovakia's misperception of its geopolitical uniqueness and paradoxes of its domestic political development led to serious misunderstandings about Western responses.
Marie Mendras
- Published in print:
- 2001
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199244096
- eISBN:
- 9780191600371
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/019924409X.003.0019
- Subject:
- Political Science, Democratization
Addresses the question of how Western responsibility for the early promise and later disappointments of Russia's development in the 1990s should be assessed. It contends that internal dynamics and ...
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Addresses the question of how Western responsibility for the early promise and later disappointments of Russia's development in the 1990s should be assessed. It contends that internal dynamics and historic legacies have played a large part in shaping the behaviour of the Russian elite. The chapter focuses on Russia's relations with the democratic world, highlighting its attraction to Western, mainly European, ways of life and values, as well as a propensity for resisting influence and subordination. The chapter notes two major symptoms of a growing disregard for democratic rule, civil rights, and the rule of law: (1) the second war in Chechnya (2) Vladimir Putin's predetermined presidential election. The author points out to several reasons for the deterioration of democratic society in Russia's ‘new capitalism’: the flawed nature of elections, the pressure on powerful rivals not to compete, the scale of corruption and the frequency of financial‐political scandals. Nevertheless, the chapter also shows that in a number of cases Russia has demonstrated the will to play by international Western rules. Despite daunting internal problems, the opening of Russia and its immersion into the world of affairs has fundamentally changed the political environment.Less
Addresses the question of how Western responsibility for the early promise and later disappointments of Russia's development in the 1990s should be assessed. It contends that internal dynamics and historic legacies have played a large part in shaping the behaviour of the Russian elite. The chapter focuses on Russia's relations with the democratic world, highlighting its attraction to Western, mainly European, ways of life and values, as well as a propensity for resisting influence and subordination. The chapter notes two major symptoms of a growing disregard for democratic rule, civil rights, and the rule of law: (1) the second war in Chechnya (2) Vladimir Putin's predetermined presidential election. The author points out to several reasons for the deterioration of democratic society in Russia's ‘new capitalism’: the flawed nature of elections, the pressure on powerful rivals not to compete, the scale of corruption and the frequency of financial‐political scandals. Nevertheless, the chapter also shows that in a number of cases Russia has demonstrated the will to play by international Western rules. Despite daunting internal problems, the opening of Russia and its immersion into the world of affairs has fundamentally changed the political environment.
Bryan Rennie
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195394337
- eISBN:
- 9780199777358
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195394337.003.0009
- Subject:
- Religion, Theology
This chapter discusses the influence of Eliade’s Romanian Orthodox theological background on his understanding of religion. It particularly considers Eliade’s early (pre-India) writings, the possible ...
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This chapter discusses the influence of Eliade’s Romanian Orthodox theological background on his understanding of religion. It particularly considers Eliade’s early (pre-India) writings, the possible influence of Nae Ionescu and Eliade’s Bucharest friends, and some previously published work on the subject. After establishing a series of consonances or homologies between background and understanding—such as icons as hierophanies—it considers to what extent the former might have determined the latter. Recognizing certain divergences, the conclusion is that Orthodox theology has not exerted a dominating influence upon Eliade in the sense of imposing dogmatic assumptions about the real/sacred upon him. Its ritualistic influence, nonetheless, enabled an understanding of religion that would not have been forthcoming given a different cultural background.Less
This chapter discusses the influence of Eliade’s Romanian Orthodox theological background on his understanding of religion. It particularly considers Eliade’s early (pre-India) writings, the possible influence of Nae Ionescu and Eliade’s Bucharest friends, and some previously published work on the subject. After establishing a series of consonances or homologies between background and understanding—such as icons as hierophanies—it considers to what extent the former might have determined the latter. Recognizing certain divergences, the conclusion is that Orthodox theology has not exerted a dominating influence upon Eliade in the sense of imposing dogmatic assumptions about the real/sacred upon him. Its ritualistic influence, nonetheless, enabled an understanding of religion that would not have been forthcoming given a different cultural background.
Edward A. Siecienski
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195372045
- eISBN:
- 9780199777297
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195372045.003.0010
- Subject:
- Religion, History of Christianity
The progress that was made during the nineteenth century began to bear fruit in the twentieth, a transformation explainable by a number of factors. In the first half of the century Russian émigrés in ...
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The progress that was made during the nineteenth century began to bear fruit in the twentieth, a transformation explainable by a number of factors. In the first half of the century Russian émigrés in Paris began a constructive re-engagement with the West following the Bolshevik Revolution. Roman Catholic theology was, at the same time, enjoying a renaissance of biblical and patristic studies, coupled with a renewed interest in the place of the Spirit in the life of the Church. For the first time in centuries the nascent ecumenical movement brought theologians and hierarchs together for formal dialogues, all aimed at healing the divisions that had grown up between them. These dialogues, both bilateral and multilateral, were remarkable in the level of consensus reached on the filioque, and provide reason to hope that a resolution to this centuries old problem is not far off.Less
The progress that was made during the nineteenth century began to bear fruit in the twentieth, a transformation explainable by a number of factors. In the first half of the century Russian émigrés in Paris began a constructive re-engagement with the West following the Bolshevik Revolution. Roman Catholic theology was, at the same time, enjoying a renaissance of biblical and patristic studies, coupled with a renewed interest in the place of the Spirit in the life of the Church. For the first time in centuries the nascent ecumenical movement brought theologians and hierarchs together for formal dialogues, all aimed at healing the divisions that had grown up between them. These dialogues, both bilateral and multilateral, were remarkable in the level of consensus reached on the filioque, and provide reason to hope that a resolution to this centuries old problem is not far off.
David G. Lewis
- Published in print:
- 2020
- Published Online:
- September 2020
- ISBN:
- 9781474454766
- eISBN:
- 9781474480611
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Edinburgh University Press
- DOI:
- 10.3366/edinburgh/9781474454766.001.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, Political Theory
In this book, David Lewis offers an original interpretation of the Russian political system that developed under Vladimir Putin as a new form of authoritarianism. Lewis argues that the Putinist ...
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In this book, David Lewis offers an original interpretation of the Russian political system that developed under Vladimir Putin as a new form of authoritarianism. Lewis argues that the Putinist worldview challenged liberal beliefs about concepts such as sovereignty, the state, and democracy, and instead promoted a set of illiberal norms and ideas that contributed to a global backlash against liberal politics. The book uses the political thought of Carl Schmitt, the Nazi jurist and anti-liberal political theorist, to explore political developments in Russia in the first two decades of the 21st century. Case-studies examine how ideas of sovereign decision-making and exceptionality undermined the rule of law in Russia, producing a system of politicised, selective justice. A striving for national unity degenerated into a search for external and internal enemies. Russia’s democratic institutions were gradually hollowed out as Russia developed a form of “illiberal democracy”. The second part of the book uses Schmitt’s theories of international relations to study Russian foreign policy, including a detailed case-study of the annexation of Crimea, a new interpretation of Russia’s search for a sphere of influence in the former Soviet space, and a study of messianic thinking in Russian policy in the Middle East. The book is a detailed study of contemporary Russian politics, but also draws parallels between developments in Russia and the global growth of right-wing populism and authoritarianism.Less
In this book, David Lewis offers an original interpretation of the Russian political system that developed under Vladimir Putin as a new form of authoritarianism. Lewis argues that the Putinist worldview challenged liberal beliefs about concepts such as sovereignty, the state, and democracy, and instead promoted a set of illiberal norms and ideas that contributed to a global backlash against liberal politics. The book uses the political thought of Carl Schmitt, the Nazi jurist and anti-liberal political theorist, to explore political developments in Russia in the first two decades of the 21st century. Case-studies examine how ideas of sovereign decision-making and exceptionality undermined the rule of law in Russia, producing a system of politicised, selective justice. A striving for national unity degenerated into a search for external and internal enemies. Russia’s democratic institutions were gradually hollowed out as Russia developed a form of “illiberal democracy”. The second part of the book uses Schmitt’s theories of international relations to study Russian foreign policy, including a detailed case-study of the annexation of Crimea, a new interpretation of Russia’s search for a sphere of influence in the former Soviet space, and a study of messianic thinking in Russian policy in the Middle East. The book is a detailed study of contemporary Russian politics, but also draws parallels between developments in Russia and the global growth of right-wing populism and authoritarianism.
Javier Defelipe
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- January 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195392708
- eISBN:
- 9780199863525
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195392708.003.0006
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, History of Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Systems
This chapter provides some final thoughts on the Brainhow mouse. It uses a metaphor used by the Russian writer Vladimir Nabokov (1899–1977) as illustration. Nabokov was a grapheme-color synesthete. ...
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This chapter provides some final thoughts on the Brainhow mouse. It uses a metaphor used by the Russian writer Vladimir Nabokov (1899–1977) as illustration. Nabokov was a grapheme-color synesthete. The chapter considers that the similarities between scientific illustrations and some paintings created by artists pose the question of whether an artist unconsciously paints not only what his brain interprets, but to some extent, what his own brain contains. The inexhaustible artistic creativity of the human mind seems to have a parallel multicolored world within the microscopic universe of the brain.Less
This chapter provides some final thoughts on the Brainhow mouse. It uses a metaphor used by the Russian writer Vladimir Nabokov (1899–1977) as illustration. Nabokov was a grapheme-color synesthete. The chapter considers that the similarities between scientific illustrations and some paintings created by artists pose the question of whether an artist unconsciously paints not only what his brain interprets, but to some extent, what his own brain contains. The inexhaustible artistic creativity of the human mind seems to have a parallel multicolored world within the microscopic universe of the brain.
