Constructing Capitalism: The Reemergence Of Civil Society And Liberal Economy In The Post-communist World

The book explores how the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe are recreating a communist antithesis of civil society and free markets due to ideological erosion and economic deterioration.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 238 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Soviet Union and Eastern Europe have undergone a significant transformation, prompting a comprehensive appraisal in the book. Addressing two central themes, it delves into the dissolution of the state socialist system characterized by party monopoly and central planning. Additionally, it explores the emergence of a communist antithesis, encompassing civil society and free markets, in these societies. The contributors attribute the collapse of state socialism to a combination of ideological erosion and economic deterioration stemming from improperly defined property rights.

The book offers a comprehensive analysis of the complex processes that have shaped these regions. It explores the ideological shifts that have led to the rejection of Marxist-Leninist ideology and the embrace of market-oriented reforms. It also examines the economic challenges faced by these societies, including the transition from a command economy to a market-based economy, the privatization of state-owned enterprises, and the establishment of democratic institutions.

The contributors to the book draw from a range of academic disciplines, including economics, sociology, political science, and history. Their insights provide a nuanced understanding of the historical, social, and economic factors that have contributed to the transformation of the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe. The book is particularly valuable for students, scholars, and policymakers interested in understanding the complex dynamics of post-Soviet societies and the challenges they face in the 21st century.

In conclusion, the book offers a valuable contribution to the study of the transformation of the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe. By examining the dissolution of the state socialist system, the emergence of civil society and free markets, and the factors that have driven these changes, it provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex processes that have shaped these regions. The insights offered by the contributors are valuable for students, scholars, and policymakers seeking to navigate the complex challenges and opportunities of the post-Soviet era.

ISBN-13: 9780367154509