POLS 247 - Vodka and Capitalism: Russian Politics in the 21st Century

3 Credit(s)

This course examines the various political, economic, and social problems facing Russia and the 14 so-called Newly Independent States (NIS), which together formerly composed the Soviet Union. Topics addressed include the transition and evolution of the Russian political system, the transformation of the Soviet command economy into a capitalist economy, the attendant rise of organized crime, the war in Chechnya, and Russian foreign policy. In addition, students examine the post-Soviet developments in the Central Asian republics (the “Stans”), and their role in the war on terror.
Prerequisite(s): No Prerequisites.