Taking a unique qualitative approach to studying Russian political culture, this book presents an in-depth analysis of the attitudes and activities of residents in two provincial capitals, Syktyvkar and Kirov. It shows evidence of underlying democracy in popular opinions. It also finds an authoritarian side that is being strengthened by the ongoing crisis of Russia's transition. In entering a controversial subject area, the author directs a critical eye toward the contemporary research on Russian political culture.

JAMES ALEXANDER is Assistant Professor of Political Science at Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, Oklahoma, USA.

List of Tables List of Figures List of Maps Preface Investigating Russian Political Culture Political Culture as a Research Agenda Surveying Attitudes in Russia: A Representation of Formlessness Uncertain Conditions in the Russian Transition: The Popular Drive Toward Stability in a 'Stateless' Environment Concepts in the Making: How Russians Define Their Political World Activity and Apathy: The Extremes of Politics in the Komi Republic Russians as Political Participants: Looking away from Politics Russian Relations with Authority: The Call for Strength and Unity in Leadership Formlessness and Cultural Recreation Appendix Bibliography Index