Accession Number:

ADA247222

Title:

Restructuring and the Polarization of Soviet Politics

Descriptive Note:

Interim rept.

Corporate Author:

RAND CORP SANTA MONICA CA

Personal Author(s):

• Azrael, Jeremy R.

Report Date:

1990-06-01

Pagination or Media Count:

24.0

Abstract:

This Note examines the economic and political changes that have taken place in the Soviet Union since Mikhail Gorbachevs accession to power, and assesses the longer-term implications of those changes. Following an evaluation of Gorbachevs first-term performance as a crisis manager, the Note examines the current situation and concludes with speculation on future prospects. The study concludes that 1 Gorbachev has presided over and contributed to, a deepening systemic crisis 2 militant opposition to Gorbachev has been building on both the right and left 3 while Gorbachev may be able to use his new presidential powers to keep things under control, the Soviet Union may be on the verge of a civil war 4 the existence of a clear and present danger of a violent implosion in the Soviet Union has significant implications for U.S. policy.

Descriptors:

• *ECONOMICS
• USSR
• POLARIZATION
• IMPLOSIONS
• WARFARE
• POLITICAL SCIENCE

Subject Categories:

• Economics and Cost Analysis
• Government and Political Science

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE