PSC 203 Lecture Notes - Lecture 30: Bicameralism, Oligarchy, United Russia
Document Summary
Post-communist geography changes: the ussr becomes 15 new countries, some were reunited while others were divided, some had peaceful transitions. Challenges to building capitalism: first step is to peruse privatization, privatize former state-run factories and industries, next you must be opened up to marketization. Russia fails to transition: most of the countries in the former soviet bloc failed to transition to democracy, unfavorable pro-communist legacy. Lower levels of economic development: weaker civil society, history of authoritarian institutions prior to communism, no real experience with rule of law. Lead to more civil wars in the area due to weapons. Leads to a small group of oligarchs coming into power and dominating. Issues arise each time oil prices drop, leading to civil unrest. Comparing transitions: russia & poland: poland"s transition to democracy, had a history of strong civil society groups, created solidarity, catholic church has a lot of influence.
