The Decision-maker-elite-public Perspective Of Russia's International Outlook (2000-2016)

Since Vladimir Putin became Russia's major policymaker in the beginning of 21 st Century,Russia's international perception has undergone significant changes.Such changes will have a profound impact on foreign policy,especially on Russia's Western policy.By analyzing changes on world situation and international affairs of Russian foreign policy guidance documents,elite and mass' attitudes,this dissertation explores the changes and transitions of Russia's international perception.In the introduction,on the basis of previous research,this dissertation establishes its own research ideas and brings forward the possible difficulties and innovation.The first chapter defines academic concepts and designs the theoretical analysis framework.The second,third and fourth chapters make a comprehensive analysis on Russian international perception,which clarifies the characteristics of changes: despite a short moderate period,Russia's perceptions of external threats are deepening;the state emphasizes the development of military forces;the elite is more inclined to consider the military strength as the means to achieve national interests;anti-Americanism and nationalism are in a high level,which stimulates aspirations to pursue Russia's status as a great power.The change is led by external and internal factors.The fifth chapter evaluates the main influence.The conclusion summarizes research contents and brings forward the future research points.This dissertation finds there are common points on the changes of Russia's international perception from the perspective of the policymaker,elite and mass.Therefore,studying the Russia's international perception and exploring the logic of its foreign policy-making can provide background knowledge for understanding Russia's external behavior.Simultaneously,it's helpful for China when making its Russian policy and beneficial to the development of Sino-Russian bilateral relations.