Understanding the Russian Perspective on Democracy
In recent discussions, the term ldquo;democracyrdquo; has been widely used and often misunderstood. While the general understanding of democracy is often centered around the ability to choose leaders, the Russian perspective on this concept extends beyond its simple definition.
The Misconception of Democracy in the USSR
The term ldquo;democracyrdquo; invokes thoughts of a system where the people have a say in governance. However, the USSR presents a counterexample. Many argue that the existence of democracy in the USSR is non-existent. This leads to the conclusion that democracy is not merely a reflection of societal norms but rather a structured system of governance.
Democracy and Society: Two Distinct Concepts
Many argue that democracy is a system of governance, independent of societal conditions. It's important to note that Russia, as a neoliberal state, operates in a competitive environment where every individual is seen as a competitor to another. This competitive nature is a fundamental aspect of the market democracy. The idea of unity and equality is undermined in such a system, where the focus is on individualism.
Individualism and Market Democracy in Russia
The concept of dividing household belongings after a divorce provides a vivid illustration. In the given example, a couple is dividing household items, showcasing the individualistic and competitive nature of their relationship. Items like a microwave oven, a dishwasher, and furniture are listed with their assessed values, reflecting a system where personal belongings are more important than social unity.
The Dissection of Household Divorce Settlements
Letrsquo;s delve into the details of a Russian couplersquo;s divorce settlement to further illustrate the point. At the top of the list is a microwave oven, which is a testament to modern household technology. It was noted that their dishwasher was smashed by one of the partners during installation, and it served them for nine years before finally breaking down. This scenario reflects the destructive and wasteful nature of individualistic competition.
Legacies of Rivalry and Divorce
The legacy of rivalry can be seen in the items listed for division. The ex-husband damaged the dishwasher, symbolizing his disinterest in maintaining domestic routines and harmony. The insistence on using the item for nine years despite the damage demonstrates a lack of concern for the other person. IKEA furniture, once a source of comfort, is now degrading due to the failure to replace it, reflecting a society where personal gain trumps communal well-being.
High Profile Divorces and Their Humor
High-profile divorces in Russian billionaires' households often take on a tragicomic hue. Pavel Durov, a high-tech entrepreneur, is detained in France, pursuing him relentlessly by his ex-girlfriend, Bolgar. Durov is also dealing with the consequences of a vendetta, involving revenge and desperation. This situation further highlights the competitive and individualistic nature of Russian society.
Conclusion
The Russian perception of democracy as a system of governance, rather than a society, highlights the competitive and individualistic aspects of their culture. Despite this, the democratic system in Russia operates within a neoliberal framework, which promotes significant social disparities. Understanding this perspective is crucial for global discussions about democracy and its implementation.