The Burden of Pseudo-Existing Choice

Abstract

The pseudo-alternative nature of the forthcoming presidential election in Russia is a logical out come of the vertical of power and influence that has been formed for many years in this state. Starting from that pre supposition, the author analyzes the public opinion dynamics among Russian citizens relative to the assumed criteria of choice as to a presidential contender on behalf of the party in power (i.e. “winner”), on the one hand, as well as the electoral intentions and expectations of the population, on the other hand. Based on this analysis, the author concludes that the interdependence between the functions of the ruling clique and the masses may change as a result of a transition from a “procedural” to an historical choice. A new structure of society characterized by a gradual weakening of the highest ranks can pave the way for modern patterns of two-sided dependencies in the future.