Psychoanalytic Reflections on Vladimir Putin: The Cost of Malignant Leadership

Psychoanalytic Reflections on Vladimir Putin explores the core psychodynamics of his presidency, examining the leader-follower relationship, the costs of malignant leadership, and the threat of nuclear war. It is of interest to psychoanalysts and readers seeking to understand populist leadership.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 124 pages
Publication date: 03 April 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Psychoanalytic Reflections on Vladimir Putin: The Cost of Malignant Leadership delves into the intricate psychodynamics that define Vladimir Putin's presidency. Contributors explore the nature of the leader-follower dynamic, the consequences of malignant leadership, and the broader historical context in which Putin's reign unfolds. The looming threat of nuclear war is examined, as well as the viability and ethical considerations of conducting distance assessments. This comprehensive book appeals to psychoanalysts and scholars interested in comprehending the intricate dynamics of populist leadership.

Introduction:
Psychoanalytic Reflections on Vladimir Putin: The Cost of Malignant Leadership offers a profound exploration into the core psychodynamics that shape Vladimir Putin's presidency. This book aims to shed light on the intricate dynamics of the leader-follower relationship, the devastating costs associated with malignant leadership, and the broader historical context in which Putin's leadership has unfolded. By examining these critical aspects, the contributors to this volume seek to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics that underpin Putin's reign.

The Nature of the Leader-Follower Relationship:
The contributors to this book delve into the complex nature of the leader-follower relationship, examining how it has evolved under Putin's presidency. They explore the power dynamics, trust, and communication that underpin this relationship, as well as the potential consequences of unhealthy or abusive leadership. The authors argue that the leader-follower dynamic is crucial in understanding the actions and decisions taken by political leaders, and that malignant leadership can have far-reaching and devastating effects on society.

The Costs of Malignant Leadership:
Malignant leadership, characterized by traits such as narcissism, Machiavellianism, and a lack of empathy, is a central theme of this book. The contributors examine the profound costs associated with such leadership, including the erosion of democratic values, the suppression of human rights, and the undermining of social cohesion. They highlight the devastating impact that malignant leaders can have on individuals, communities, and entire nations, and argue that the responsibility lies with society to identify and confront these leaders.

The Larger Historical Context:
The contributors to this book also place Putin's presidency within the broader historical context of Russian politics and society. They explore the historical legacies, cultural influences, and geopolitical factors that have shaped Putin's leadership and influenced his policies. The authors argue that understanding the historical context is essential in comprehending the current challenges facing Russia and the world, and that Putin's leadership has been shaped by a complex interplay of internal and external factors.

The Threat of Nuclear War:
The looming threat of nuclear war is a sobering reality that cannot be ignored in this book. The contributors examine the potential consequences of a nuclear conflict, including the loss of human life, environmental devastation, and the long-term destabilization of international relations. They argue that the risk of nuclear war is a result of the aggressive rhetoric, territorial expansion, and military interventions pursued by Putin's government.

Viability and Ethics of Distance Assessment:
Finally, the contributors to this book discuss the viability and ethics of conducting distance assessments of political leaders. They argue that such assessments can be valuable in understanding the actions and decisions taken by leaders, but also raise important ethical considerations. They explore the potential biases, limitations, and risks associated with distance assessment, and argue that it is essential to approach these assessments with a critical and nuanced mindset.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Psychoanalytic Reflections on Vladimir Putin: The Cost of Malignant Leadership provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration into the core psychodynamics that characterize Vladimir Putin's presidency. By examining the nature of the leader-follower relationship, the costs of malignant leadership, and the broader historical context, the contributors to this book offer valuable insights into the complex dynamics of populist leadership. The looming threat of nuclear war serves as a reminder of the urgent need for dialogue, diplomacy, and international cooperation to address the challenges facing our world. As psychoanalysts and scholars, we must continue to engage with these critical issues and work towards a more peaceful and just future.

Weight: 250g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032438450