166-019 Russian Politics and Society

Usually 25 points of first-year politics or first-year European studies.

This subject examines issues in contemporary Russian politics and society. Students will discuss presidential and parliamentary elections; political democratisation in Russia; political culture and ideology, and the war in Chechnya. At the end of the subject students should have a comprehensive understanding of the main dynamics and issues in contemporary Russian politics and be able to assess and critically analyse problems in developing a new political system in the Russian Federation. Students should also develop an appreciation of the historical origins of contemporary problems in Russian politics and society, and a basic familiarity with the main Russian political parties and their policies and programs.

• be able to research through the competent use of the library and other information sources, and be able to define areas of inquiry and methods of research in the preparation of essays;

• be able to conceptualise theoretical problems, form judgements and arguments and communicate critically, creatively and theoretically through essay writing, tutorial discussion and presentations;

• be able to communicate knowledge ideologically and economically through essay writing and tutorial discussion;

• be able to manage and organise workloads for recommended reading, the completion of essays and assignments and examination revision;

• be able to participate in team work through small group discussions.

An essay of 2000 words 50% due mid-semester and a 2 hour exam 50% to be held during the examination period.

A subject reader will be provided.