Economist Podcasts War stories: the view from Russia
Mar 8, 2022
Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist's expert on Russia and Eastern Europe, shares deep insights on the current situation in Russia amidst escalating tensions. He discusses how state propaganda shapes public sentiment on the war in Ukraine, revealing a rift in perspectives across different age groups. The conversation also highlights the increasing repression faced by dissenters and examines the rising wave of jihadism in West Africa, emphasizing its impact on regional stability. Ostrovsky's analysis raises questions about the future of resistance in the face of government control.
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Disagreement on Ukraine War
- Not every Russian agrees with the war in Ukraine.
- Sources of real news are being shut down, causing societal division.
Generational Divide on War
- Younger Russians, relying on the internet, have different views than older generations.
- Older generations are more vulnerable to Russian state television propaganda.
Impact of Totalitarianism
- Some Russians side with propaganda as a survival strategy due to fear.
- Polling in a totalitarian state is difficult because people answer out of fear.
