Thursday, October 22, 2009
Russia: Soviet Words and Deeds
This article gives the reader a closer look at the resurgence of Soviet ideological support. As Russians face harsh conditions, they begin looking back at the Soviet era (even during the time of Stalin) with nostalgia. Socialism is most appealing when suffering is high and basic human needs and rights are not being met; especially when they are are higher than in the memorable past. Although the author focuses on the new vigor for the Soviet past in ideological and symbolic terms, it could have huge implications for a change back to socialist economic policy. It is important to recognize that socialism has not entirely lost its appeal, which is a factor we tend to take for granted in the United States.
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2 comments:
I agree with what Maria stated regarding the article - although the author of this article focuses primarily on the new view of Soviet past, it could have huge implications for a change back to a socialistic economic policy. With the global recession in full force, Russians along with many other nations are facing harsh living conditions and consequently are looking to bring back their Soviet roots. According to the author, rigging elections has been very commonplace in Russia too which could be very closely linked to why Putin's party received nearly 70% of the votes in the October 11 elections whereas the Communist party received only 13%.
I really found this article interesting because it highlights how economic organization can deeply affect the culture of a society. Only 17 years ago Russia was still a complete command economy and it seems that there are still strong feelings for that time in Russian history today. I was very surprised to learn that old Soviet symbols and practices such as election tampering are alive and well today. How far will groups like the Nashi go to revitalize the old soviet ideals? Will they gain popular support or will they remain fringe groups. I tend to believe the ladder but acknowledge that this growing nostalgia and fixation with the Soviet era among some Russians could hamper efforts to maintain a working democracy in Russia.
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