1. To acquaint students with the historical significance of the communist period in selected post-communist states (e.g., Russian and other states in the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe). 2. To examine contemporary politics and related issues in these states. 3. To examine the difficulties of the transition from communism to capitalism and democracy. 4. To address the roles and foreign affairs of these states in the contemporary world.
The Historical Background Marxism-Leninism The Soviet Experience with Communism The Experiences of East and Central European States with Communism Contemporary Politics The Political Legacy Post-Communist Political Objectives The “New Politics” Leaders and Institutions Contemporary Issues Economics Social Affairs Demographic Issues Foreign Affairs and International Issues Foreign Policy Security Policy Relations with NATO and the West The Future