Constructing Capitalism: The Reemergence of Civil Society and Liberal Economy in the Post-Communist World

In this book, scholars examine transformation in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, arguing that it will follow a different path from Western democracies due to ideological erosion and economic deterioration. The contributors highlight the attempted August coup and the subsequent fragmentation of the Soviet Union as an example of this uneven process.

Format: Hardback
Length: 230 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In this comprehensive and timely interdisciplinary volume, a distinguished group of scholars delves into a fresh examination of transformation in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. They contend that this protracted and largely uncontrollable process will diverge from the path followed by Western democracies. The contributors perceive this journey as a challenging and arduous one, characterized by trials and setbacks. The most striking and contemporary illustration of this uneven process is the attempted August coup and the subsequent disintegration of the Soviet Union. The contributors attribute the collapse of state socialism to the erosion of ideological values compounded by economic decline, arguing that all major segments within these societies, including the party itself, played a role in bringing the system down.

The contributors explore various dimensions of this transformation, including political, economic, social, and cultural aspects. They analyze the complex factors that contributed to the collapse of communism and the emergence of new political systems. They also examine the challenges and opportunities that these societies face in their transition to democracy and market-oriented economies.

One of the key themes of the volume is the role of ideology in shaping the transition process. The contributors argue that the ideological vacuum created by the collapse of communism allowed for the emergence of various political ideologies and movements. They explore the influence of nationalism, liberalism, and conservatism on the political landscape and the challenges that these ideologies pose to the establishment of stable and democratic institutions.

Another important aspect of the transformation is the economic transition. The contributors discuss the challenges and opportunities that Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union face in their efforts to transition from state-controlled economies to market-oriented economies. They analyze the impact of globalization, trade liberalization, and foreign investment on these societies and the strategies that they have adopted to navigate these complex economic waters.

The social and cultural dimensions of transformation are also explored. The contributors examine the impact of the collapse of communism on social structures, values, and identities. They discuss the challenges that individuals and communities face in adjusting to new social norms and the role that education, social welfare, and cultural institutions play in promoting social cohesion and stability.

The volume also includes case studies of specific countries and regions that have undergone transformation. These case studies provide valuable insights into the processes and outcomes of transformation in different contexts. They highlight the successes and failures of different policies and strategies and the challenges that these countries continue to face in their journey toward democracy and prosperity.

In conclusion, this interdisciplinary volume offers a comprehensive and insightful examination of transformation in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. It provides a valuable contribution to the study of political, economic, social, and cultural change in post-communist societies. The contributors offer a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex processes that shape these societies, and their insights will be of interest to scholars, policymakers, and practitioners alike.

Weight: 585g
Dimension: 229 x 146 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367004637