Russian Conservatism Quotes

“There has been less constancy on social and economic matters. The conservative tent has sheltered economic liberals, supporters of state intervention, and thinkers who have been rather hostile to the idea of economic development. Mostly, though, Russian conservatives’ views on economic affairs have been shaped by a dislike of top-down policies of rapid modernization promoted by the Russian state and by suspicion of the state bureaucracy. In the late nineteenth century this led to ideas such as those of Sergei Sharapov and Lev Tikhomirov, who argued that Russia should focus on developing its internal market rather than on products for export. These ideas were combined with support for protectionism and a loose monetary policy, and with suggestions that Russia reduce its dependence on foreign capital. The economic proposals of modern left conservatives, who in the name of social justice argue in favor of a fairer distribution of resources, are in some ways similar. Conservatism is an important part of Russia’s political and intellectual landscape. Indeed, given the accelerating pace of globalization and modernization, it is possible that the current conservative reaction will grow stronger rather than weaker as time goes on. The ideas discussed in this book, therefore, are of more than just historical interest; they will help to shape Russia’s future, for better or for worse, in the years to come.”
― Paul Robinson, Russian Conservatism