The writers in this book question whether there may be a reversion to an authoritarian system in Russia.

This authoritative study examines Russia's four key succession crises: after Stalin's death, throughout Khrushchev's primacy, during the implosion of the USSR, and with Putin's ascent to power. The distinguished authors argue that the common denominator has been the absence of a transparent, non-arbitrary, and lawful mechanism for the transfer of political power. Consequently, contenders for leadership have engaged in vicious power struggles followed by pseudo-legitimation of the victor. As Moscow reemerges as a major international actor, its unpredictability domestically triggers after...

This authoritative study examines Russia's four key succession crises: after Stalin's death, throughout Khrushchev's primacy, during the implosion of the USSR, and with Putin's ascent to power. The distinguished authors argue that the common denominator has been the absence of a transparent, non-arbitrary, and lawful mechanism for the transfer of political power. Consequently, contenders for leadership have engaged in vicious power struggles followed by pseudo-legitimation of the victor. As Moscow reemerges as a major international actor, its unpredictability domestically triggers after...

A collection of papers presented at Boston University by leading Sovietologists evaluating the meaning of developments in the USSR and their impact since Gorbachev became head of government. The consensus is that the USSR is facing a systemic crisis, affecting ideology, leadership and economics.

The distinguished experts in these fields brought together in this book question whether such an infrastructure is firm enough as yet to preclude reversion to an authoritarian system. Current events in Russia form an experiment of incalculable importance to the future of the international system - Russian Pluralism-Now Irreversible?