Description
Book SynopsisUsing the Russian presidents major public addresses as the main source, Bo Petersson analyses the legitimization strategies employed during Vladimir Putins third and fourth terms in office. The argument is that these strategies have rested on Putins highly personalised blend of strongman-image projection and presentation as the embodiment of Russias great power myth. Putin appears as the only credible guarantor against renewed weakness, political chaos, and interference from abroad -- in particular from the US. After a first deep crisis of legitimacy manifested itself by the massive protests in 20112012, the annexation of Crimea led to a lengthy boost in Putins popularity figures. The book discusses how the Crimea effect is, by 2021, trailing off and Putins charismatic authority is increasingly questioned by opposition from Alexei Navalny, the effects of unpopular reforms, and poor handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, Russia is bound to head for a succession crisis as the legitimacy of the political system continues to be built on Putins projected personal characteristics and -- now apparently waning -- charisma, and since no potential heir apparent has been allowed on centre-stage. The constitutional reform of summer 2020 made it possible in theory for Putin to continue as president until 2036. Yet, this change did not address the Russian political systems fundamental future leadership dilemma.
Trade ReviewThis is an important and much-needed study of a Putin regime which has evolved considerably over the years. Petersson, a leading expert on the Putin leadership and policy program, brings care and nuance to this rich study of Putins regime legitimization efforts in his third and fourth presidential terms. Those familiar with Peterssons scholarship will not be surprised that this volume is carefully crafted, it is well-grounded in a compelling analysis of Putins public addresses, and it offers significant insights about contemporary Russian politics that go beyond the standard fare. Petersson effectively juxtaposes Putins regime-legitimating efforts with the profound challenges that confront the regime in its third decade. I am excited to add Peterssons book to my personal library, and I expect to draw on this unique work for my own research needs. The Putin Predicament is a significant and welcome contribution to our scholarship. John P. Willerton, Professor of Political Science, University of Arizona, Tucson
Bo Petersson, one of our leading scholars of national identity in Russia, provides an original and important interpretation of Vladimir Putins approach to gaining, holding, and exercising power. His central insight, that Putins claim to authority is based on his self-presentation as the guardian of Russias great power status, puts international conflict at the center of Putins political strategy and by extension of Russian politics more broadly. The implications for the Putin succession, for the legitimacy of the Russian state after Putin, and for Russias relations with other states are sobering. Paul DAnieri, Professor of Political Science and Public Policy, University of California
This important book tackles some of the key issues in present-day Russian politics. Bo Petersson argues that the legitimacy of the Russian political system rests heavily on Putins personal popularity. The regime, though, now finds itself confronting the Putin predicament wherein Putins charismatic authority appears to be waning in the face of new challenges, but no viable alternative leader has been allowed to emerge. Can the regime overcome this or is a succession crisis inevitable when Putin finally leaves office? This is a timely and up-to-date study that will be welcomed by all those interested in the political trajectory of contemporary Russia. Dr. Kenneth Wilson, Assistant Professor of Political Science, Dongguk University (Seoul)
Table of ContentsForeword by J Paul Goode; Authors Preface and Acknowledgments; Introduction; Theoretical Points of Orientation; Legitimizing Putin; Legitimacy through Othering; Challenges from Within; Challenges from Without; The Succession Issue; Conclusion; References.
