Are Russians Undemocratic?

Abstract

Abstract Two experts on Russian politics and government assess claims that undemocratic attitudes prevail among the Russian population. Original survey data about perceptions of democratic institutions and values as well as sociodemographic data are analyzed to gauge support for democratic ideas. Surveys comprise a three-stage panel survey in which interviews and reinterviews took place between November 1999 and May 2000, with an initial sample of 1,919 respondents. The tradeoff between order and democracy, prospects for a more autocratic future, and policy recommendations are discussed.