This book examines the ideological foundations of post-2022 Russia, arguing that the Putin regime is not merely defined by personalist rule, authoritarian tactics, or foreign policy decisions. Instead, it is underpinned by a carefully constructed framework of narratives that together form an "empire of meaning."
Through in-depth analysis of official discourse, intellectual debates, and institutional practices, this book reveals how Russian elites and state actors mobilize concepts like sovereignty, traditional values, and civilizational identity. It demonstrates that the Kremlin's use of ideology is not just rhetorical but a core element of governance, shaping state-society relations and the country's global strategy. By situating Russia's ideological shift within broader debates on illiberalism and identity politics, the book provides a systematic account of how ideas sustain contemporary politics.
The Empire of Meaning is essential for scholars, students, and professionals in political science, international relations, and Russian studies. It is also a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the role of ideology in modern authoritarian regimes and global politics.
| ISBN: | 9781041035947 |
| Publication date: | 4th August 2026 |
| Author: | Marlene Laruelle |
| Publisher: | Routledge an imprint of Taylor & Francis |
| Format: | Hardback |
| Pagination: | 320 pages |
| Series: | BASEES/Routledge Series on Russian and East European Studies |
| Genres: |
Nationalism Disinformation and misinformation International relations |
This book examines the ideological foundations of post-2022 Russia, arguing that the Putin regime is not merely defined by personalist rule, authoritarian tactics, or foreign policy decisions. Instead, it is underpinned by a carefully constructed framework of narratives that together form an "empire of meaning."
Through in-depth analysis of official discourse, intellectual debates, and institutional practices, this book reveals how Russian elites and state actors mobilize concepts like sovereignty, traditional values, and civilizational identity. It demonstrates that the Kremlin's use of ideology is not just rhetorical but a core element of governance, shaping state-society relations and the country's global strategy. By situating Russia's ideological shift within broader debates on illiberalism and identity politics, the book provides a systematic account of how ideas sustain contemporary politics.
The Empire of Meaning is essential for scholars, students, and professionals in political science, international relations, and Russian studies. It is also a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the role of ideology in modern authoritarian regimes and global politics.
The Empire of Meaning features in the following genres: Politics and government, Regional / International studies
The Empire of Meaning is available in Hardback
The Empire of Meaning was written by Marlene Laruelle and published by Routledge an imprint of Taylor & Francis
The Empire of Meaning has 320 pages
Yes it is part of BASEES/Routledge Series on Russian and East European Studies series
£139.50