Social Class in the Russian Society

The book analyses social change and the development of the class structure in Russia since the turn of Millennium in Russia. The theme is explored from many angles, where the social classes are in the centre of the analysis. The core themes of the book deal with issues of classes and class structure, managerial practices, labour market, social mobility and social attitudes. Officially the middle-class project that the Russian political elite vigorously pursued during the past ten years was a success story: a significant part of Russians have been lifted from poverty to the ranks of low- and middle income population. The results presented in the book show that even if there are some signs indicating stabilization of "normal" capitalism, the main feature of social development in Russia in most respects during current decade has been combination of traditional forms and practices with new forms and practices, which still are in embryonic stage. The analyses are based on nationwide survey in 2007 and on surveys from the years 1991 and 1998.