This course provides an introduction to contemporary Russia. It traces Russia's roots from the Tsarist and Soviet periods and explores enduring geopolitical interests and ethnographical characteristics. It analyzes issues of national identity and political culture and describes the political institutions and practices of the Russian Federation in a comparative perspective. Finally, it examines Russia's economy, social structure, and foreign and defense policies. Ultimately, the course seeks to provide a foundation for understanding the nature of a state in the process of fundamental transition, as well as for developing hypotheses about Russia's future evolution.
1) Participation in class discussion;
2) Two mid-term examinations, to be given on February 2 and March 9 (each of which counts 25% of the final grade;
3) A comprehensive final examination, to be given on May 1 (counting 50% of the final grade).
The books listed below are basic texts. The outline below suggests the relation of the assigned readings to broad topics covered in class sessions. At certain times during the semester, video documentaries will be viewed in class. Students who wish to follow the current changes in Russia should be regular readers of a good daily or weekly newspaper, such as The New York Times or The Economist. Students may also follow developments in Russia on a daily basis via a free e-mail newsletter, Johnson's Russia List, obtainable by means of a "subscribe JRL" message sent to davidjohnson@starpower.net
Donaldson and Nogee, chs. 1-2
Strayer, entire
Remington, chs. 1-2
Donaldson and Nogee, chs. 3-4
Remington, ch. 5
Ledeneva, Introduction and chapter 1
Remington, ch. 3
Remington, chs. 4, 6
Ledeneva, chs. 2-4
Remington, ch. 7
Ledeneva, chs. 5 and 6
Remington, ch. 8
Ledeneva, ch. 7Donaldson and Nogee, ch. 6
Donaldson and Nogee, chs. 5, 7, 8 and 9
Remington, ch. 9
Ledeneva, Conclusion
MAY 1 FINAL EXAMINATION
Students are bound by the statement on "Academic Misconduct: Standards and Definitions," found in the Student Handbook.
Students with disabilities should contact the Center for Student Academic Support to self-identify their needs in order to facilitate their rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Center for Student Academic Support is located in Holmes Student Center Room 59. All students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with and take advantage of services provided by the Center for Student Academic Support such as tutoring, academic counseling, and developing study skills. The Center for Student Academic Support provides confidential consultations to any student with academic concerns as well as to students with disabilities.