Weak Strongman

More about the book

Media and public discussions often view Russian politics as a direct reflection of Vladimir Putin's perceived omnipotence or the country's unique history. However, Russia shares many characteristics with other autocracies, which reveals the inherent limits of Putin's power. This work challenges conventional wisdom about Putin's Russia by examining the complex trade-offs the Kremlin faces regarding election fraud, repression, propaganda, and foreign policy. Drawing on three decades of firsthand experience and research, along with insights from emerging social scientists, the author uncovers overlooked aspects of contemporary Russia when the focus is solely on Putin or notions of Russian exceptionalism. Key questions addressed include Putin's popularity, the effectiveness of Russian propaganda, the strained relations with the West, and the impact of Russian cyber activities on foreign elections. This accessible reassessment of Russian politics emphasizes the difficulties of governing in Russia and the nature of modern autocracy. With rich personal anecdotes and cutting-edge social science, the work provides compelling evidence about the inner workings of Russia today.