Russia Resurgent: The Once and Future Superpower
Fueled by rising revenues from its vast oil reserves, Russia is experiencing a sudden comeback from its economic and political collapse just sixteen years ago. This program will consider what Russia’s re-emergence as a global force could mean for the already diminishing constraints of arms control and for a renewed power struggle between Russia and the U.S. in an increasingly multi-polar world. Funded by the Ploughshares Fund.
Guests:
Clifford Gaddy, Senior Fellow Brookings Institution
Masha Lipman, Masha Lipman, Editor in Chief Pro et Contra Journal, Society and Regions
Fraser Cameron, Director, EU-Russia Centre
Rose Gottemoeller, Director, The Carnegie Moscow Center
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Questions for Further Discussion
“Russia Resurgent: The Once and Future Superpower”
Learning Goals: To consider the historic and present state of affairs in Russia, including the social, economic, and political implications of Russian influence on its own citizens as well as the global landscape.
Learning Methods: Assign one or more of the following questions to students individually, in pairs, or small groups for discussion. Consider assigning a short presentation, project or research assignment in response.
Terms:
Kremlin European Union Authoritarianism
UN Security Council Totalitarianism
Discussion Questions
- The Russian economy has changed dramatically since the 1990’s. Describe and contrast the Russian economy of the 1990’s versus the economy today. What accounts for this shift in fortune? How has this affected average citizens in Russia? How has the economic upturn affected the perception of Russian spending? How has it affected the political arena, both within the country and in global relations?
- Mark Sommer suggests that current Russian spending is perhaps a backlash to years of economic oppression and a response to a new capitalism. Or perhaps Russian spending is another characteristic expression of Russian nihilism. Where does this argument come from and how might Russia’s current economic reputation for spending be understood in a historic context? In other words, how might the economic, social, and political history in Russia contribute to the current economic climate?
- Russian journalist Masha Lipman suggests that Putin’s success in the consolidation of power and popular support has in large part been due to timing. What events occurred simultaneously with Putin’s rise to power and how might these events contributed to his success? What has Putin done personally and politically to contribute to Russian revitalization? Have his actions been effective? Why or why not?
- Franz Cameron, the director of the European Union’s Russia center, , describes Russia’s current political approach as “quasi authoritarianism.” What does he mean by this statement and what evidence supports the idea?
- Rose Gottemoeller, former advisor to President Clinton, suggests that Russia is no longer interested in asserting itself as a global superpower and assuming the burdens that accompanies that status. Rather, it is content maintaining a regional superpower status. What reasoning/evidence is there for this argument? She also describes two visions for Russia in the future, one largely positive and the other more pessimistic. Which vision do you feel is more likely and why? Support your answer with specific reasoning and evidence from the program.
Innovation in Action: Additional Assignments
- The relationship between Russia’s current economic windfall and the price of oil is well established. Research and explain how the price of oil dramatically affects the Russian economy. Forecast how the economy might be impacted by a dramatic fall in oil prices in a visual and/or written report.
- Research and report of on one of Russia’s recent leaders, such as Putin, Yeltsin, or Gorbachev. Discuss their personal and political history as well as their rise to power and legacy. Present your findings to the class in oral and/or written form.
- The economic disparity in Russia has been reported to be very apparent, with a shocking divide between the rich and poor. Research and describe the lifestyle of an “average” Russian citizen today, and compare it to that of an American. What comparisons and contrasts can be drawn between the middle class in America and that of Russia?
- Russian spending was described in our program by Fraser Cameron as “capitalism on speed” and “every man for himself.” Compare the rise of capitalism in Russia with the current economic climate in China, India, and other emergent economies. Choose a country such as China or India and research and discuss how the rise of capitalism in these regions has changed the social or political landscape. Consider the potential divide between generations who have grown up in very different political and economic climates. Present your findings to the class in written and/or oral form.
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