Economic and Social Changes in Russia Post-1991

Vocabulary flashcards regarding the economic and social changes in Russia following the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.

Oligarchs

Individuals in Russia in the 1990s who gained immense wealth and power due to their connections to politics and business.

New Russians

A derogatory term used in the 1990s to describe newly wealthy individuals focused on consumerism and individualism, often associated with greed and violence.

Privatization

The process in the 1990s where state-owned enterprises were transferred to private ownership, leading to significant wealth inequality.

Consumerism

An economic and social ideology that encourages the acquisition of goods and services in ever-increasing amounts.

Black market

An illegal traffic or trade in officially controlled or scarce commodities.

Demography

The statistical study of populations, especially human beings, including the structure, distribution, and trends of population changes.

Liberalization

The process of relaxing government restrictions, usually in areas such as trade, investment, and markets.

Life expectancy

The average period a person may expect to live, significantly declined in Russia from 1985 to 1999 due to health crises.

Urban phenomenon

Social and economic changes that primarily affect cities rather than rural areas.

Social instability

The condition where a society is unable to maintain social order and harmony, often leading to increased crime and unrest.

Censorship

The suppression of speech, public communication, or other information, often seen in artistic expressions post-1991.

Xenophobia

Intense or irrational dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures, which grew in Russia during the 1990s.

Nationalism

An ideological belief that emphasizes the interests of a particular nation, often leading to the promotion of its culture and interests over others.

Cultural renaissance

A revival in arts, literature, and culture following a period of repression, experienced after the fall of the Soviet Union.

Shadow economy

All economic activity that occurs outside of government regulation, taxation, and observation.

Social conservative laws

Legislation that aligns with traditional values and beliefs, often seeking to limit liberal and progressive changes in society.

Performance art

A form of art where the action takes place in front of an audience, often conveying political messages, as seen in movements like Pussy Riot.

Democratic government

A system of government where the citizens exercise power by electing representatives, significant shifts in views on democracy occurred in Russia post-1991.

Economic stability

A state of regularity and predictability in the economy, important for individuals' sense of security.

Spiritual crisis

A period marked by a loss of traditional values and beliefs, often resulting in moral degradation and social discontent.

Stabilization fund

A state fund created in response to economic downturns to maintain economic stability.

Artistic freedom

The right of artists to express themselves freely in their work, though restricted in various ways in Russia.

Cultural commodification

The transformation of cultural artifacts and practices into commodities that can be sold in the marketplace.