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They might transition to democracy through state failure, or they might not. My country, Czechoslovakia, did transition without it. It's worth reminding that d
by js8 6y ago
They might transition to democracy through state failure, or they might not. My country, Czechoslovakia, did transition without it.
It's worth reminding that despite the sorry state of USSR economy when communism ended, it still contracted by almost 1/3 during the 90s neoliberal era. And Putin improved on that, despite being authoritarian ruler. So the failure of the state is not at all given.
- toomuchtodo 6y agoI hope nothing but the best for the people of Russia. I acknowledge Putin has provided some lift for them, while also acknowledging his significant shortcomings, many of which hold back more progress for those he governs. "Hope for the best, prepare for the worst."
- js8 6y agoI feel the same, but you started this thread suggesting that we "accelerate the brain drain". I don't think that's a good idea, it's going to make ordinary Russians worse off. The immigration policy should not serve as a tool to do that, but rather as a tool to help those who are not happy living in Russia. In practice this would mean, a genius professor of nuclear science, or a dissident coal miner, should be given the same chance to immigrate into the U.S.