Surveying Attitudes in Russia: A Representation of Formlessness

Abstract

This article examines the expanding body of Western research focusing on Russian political culture. As Russia emerges from its authoritarian past, the political transition enveloping the country carries important significance for the study of political development in “post-authoritarian” societies. Upon finding a “formless” representation of Russian political culture in survey results, this article raises questions about the use of quantitative surveys to examine this topic in a society still in flux. The article concludes with a brief recommendation for an alternative approach to political culture research in Russia.