Participants

Discussion

Building on Mikhail Suslov’s book, Putinism – Post-Soviet Russian Regime Ideology (Routledge, 2024), this roundtable brings together experts from diverse analytical traditions, including political analysis, sociology of knowledge, political philosophy, and intellectual history. The discussion will examine the multifaceted efforts to construct a cohesive ideological framework for the regime, exploring both top-down directives and bottom-up initiatives. A particular emphasis will be placed on the internal logic and structure of the ideological narratives, their historical evolution, and international resonances.

Key concepts such as “Russian DNA,” “frontline philosophy,” “Russian civilization,” and “a more just world order” will be critically analyzed. The roundtable will also investigate the role of various actors in the production and dissemination of ideology, including the Russian Orthodox Church, pro-Kremlin think tanks, pseudo-NGOs, the Ministries of Education and Culture, and grassroots media activists. By addressing these dimensions, the discussion aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the ideological mechanisms underpinning contemporary Russian governance.