Russian American Scholars Perceive Russia(2000-2008)

This dissertation analyzes four outstanding Russian American scholars'comments and attitudes toward Putin's time (2000-2008) in the context of the research approaches of Russian American scholars.Firstly, the four scholars argue that the democratic trend in Russia was reversed caused by Putin's policy which promoting Russia's national strength simultaneously, and the reform during Putin's term is the choice of Russia people. Secondly, the four scholars contend that the foreign policy during Putin's time could be considered as a kind of "revisionist diplomacy". Having been heavily affected by the imperial concept, Putin aimed to establish a "spheres of influence" in the common neighborhood with the Europe. However, Putin had midled Russia into the wrong way. Thirdly, the four believe that the U.S. need the help from Russia, especially on the counter terrorism and nonproliferation issues, but the threats derived form the domestic and foreign policies of Putin's administration can't be ignored by the United States. In sum, for the U.S. government, where there is the balance between the common interests and principles diplomacy, where there is the right way when dealing with the Russian Bear.Among the spectrum of Russian Studies within the U.S. academic circle, these four scholars hold a kind of modest views relatively. Being different from some "Radical Right" or Russophobe, these scholars are always evaluating Russia from a positive perspective. For example, as they put it, while criticizing the political reform during Putin's time, the public attitudes in Russia should not be neglected. Moreover, they insist that despite Putin's domestic and foreign polices having brought some threats to the United States, it is still of significance for the U.S. government to seek cooperation with Russia. However, as most American scholars do, it is also hard for these four scholars to be aware of some normal interests Appeal of Russia in the 21-century.