The Rhetorical Rise and Demise of "Democracy" in Russian Political Discourse. Volume 2:: The Promise of "Democracy" during the Yeltsin Years

In the 1990s, Russia experienced a surge in civic participation and a "Wild West" tenor to public rhetoric due to free elections and political partisanship. This volume examines the arc of government rhetoric during this time, the quest for a new national identity, and the struggle for self-government.

Format: Hardback
Length: 500 pages
Publication date: 02 June 2022
Publisher: Academic Studies Press

In the vibrant decade of the 1990s, post-Soviet Russia witnessed a remarkable surge in civic participation, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape. The traditional power structure, which had long held sway over political rhetoric, officially relinquished its control, paving the way for the emergence of a nascent civil society. The atmosphere was characterized by free and fair elections, fueled by Russia's economic challenges, which sparked intense political partisanship between reformist and conservative elements of society. This dynamic gave rise to a "Wild West" tenor in public discourse, reflected in the election campaigns of 1993, 1995, and 1996.

In this captivating volume, a collection of contemporaneously written essays, the authors delve into the intricate tapestry of government rhetoric during the pinnacle of media freedom, the pursuit of a new national identity, and the arduous struggle for self-government. The essays offer insightful perspectives and analysis, shedding light on the complex dynamics that shaped Russia's political landscape during this transformative period.

One of the key themes explored in the volume is the evolution of government rhetoric during the height of media freedom. The authors examine how the media played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influencing political discourse. They highlight the challenges and opportunities that emerged as the media landscape expanded, with the rise of independent newspapers, television channels, and online platforms providing a platform for diverse voices and perspectives.

The authors also explore the quest for a new national identity in post-Soviet Russia. They examine how the country sought to define its identity in the wake of the collapse of the Soviet Union, and the various strategies employed by the government and society to shape this identity. The essays discuss the challenges and controversies surrounding the adoption of Russian nationalism, the role of the Russian Orthodox Church in shaping cultural values, and the impact of globalization on Russian society.

Furthermore, the volume delves into the struggle for self-government in post-Soviet Russia. The authors examine how citizens, civil society organizations, and political parties engaged in the process of building democratic institutions and promoting political participation. They highlight the successes and challenges faced by these efforts, as well as the role of the government in facilitating or hindering the development of a robust civil society.

The essays in this volume are written by renowned scholars and experts in the field of Russian politics and society. They offer a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics that shaped post-Soviet Russia in the 1990s, providing valuable insights into the country's political development and the challenges it continues to face.

In conclusion, post-Soviet Russia in the 1990s witnessed a surge in civic participation, marked by the relinquishment of traditional power structures, the emergence of a nascent civil society, and intense political partisanship. This period was characterized by a "Wild West" tenor in public discourse, fueled by Russia's economic challenges and the quest for a new national identity. In this captivating volume, the authors examine the intricate tapestry of government rhetoric, the pursuit of a new national identity, and the struggle for self-government, offering valuable insights into the complex dynamics that shaped Russia's political landscape during this transformative decade.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781644696507