Modernization and Russia. Between Progress and Stagnation?

Abstract

The article raises the problem of fi nding the causes of failures of modernization in Russia.
Author reveals the origins of past and new illusions of modernization associated mainly with
steadiness of paternalistic mentality in society. As a result of natural climatic conditions in
Russia extensive and not intensive type of development prevailed. Accordingly authoritarian
heritage in the mind of authorities always prevailed mobilization rather than modernization
psychology. In turn, in the views of common people every social progress associated with fair
and generous acts of government, rather than individual creative efforts. On this background
steadily growing bureaucratic alienation of power from the people progressed. The situation
itself was a powerful obstacle to any modernization changes. In addition, author examines the
factors – from cultural heritage to corruption – that impeded modernization process throughout
Russian history. In fact, there was a situation when the government undertook a modernization
action mainly for their own strengthening. The creative potential of society was unclaimed. In
such circumstances, the intelligentsia has sought and seeks the ways of liberating itself from the
oppressive tutelage of the state. Ultimately, all this provoked and provokes a crisis rhythm of
Russian history: returning from mobilization jerks to the usual stagnant state. The results of this
historical experience actively opposed the process of formation of civil society. As before, the
relationship of government and society remain confrontational and not a partnership. The author
concludes that in today's Russia are implemented rather stagnant than modernization intention.
However, such a state cannot last long.