I have my doubts re returning to type. At least under Putin. We're so used to "standard" Western-style democracy that grew generally out of british and american colonialisation (either in fact or simply via overriding culture influence) that truely different nations' exercises in democracy can sometimes look very alien
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I disagree with your assessment of the "common ideological / geopolitical enemies", but mostly because I see China in a similar state to Russia in many ways, it is trying to deal with the nature of democracy within the constraints of its recent history and culture.
Islamic fundamentalism is no more an enemy of ours than christian fundamentalism is. The problem is, as it has always been, people using religion as an excuse for attrocity.
Putins strength rests on his ability to do things for the Russian people. Whether he does things "in fact" or simply for show will be the more difficult determination. He will be permitted to bolster his strength as long as he continues to deliver on what appears to be a better Russia.
As you say, in Russia it is a short road from Leader to Tyrant, and one that is all too easy to slip into. I am less concerned with Putins origins as his intent now. Time will tell :)
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I disagree with your assessment of the "common ideological / geopolitical enemies", but mostly because I see China in a similar state to Russia in many ways, it is trying to deal with the nature of democracy within the constraints of its recent history and culture.
Islamic fundamentalism is no more an enemy of ours than christian fundamentalism is. The problem is, as it has always been, people using religion as an excuse for attrocity.
Putins strength rests on his ability to do things for the Russian people. Whether he does things "in fact" or simply for show will be the more difficult determination. He will be permitted to bolster his strength as long as he continues to deliver on what appears to be a better Russia.
As you say, in Russia it is a short road from Leader to Tyrant, and one that is all too easy to slip into. I am less concerned with Putins origins as his intent now. Time will tell :)
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