The New Elite in Post-Communist Eastern Europe : Book Review

"The New Elite in Post-Communist Eastern Europe" by Vladimir Shlapentokh is a comprehensive analysis of the emergence of a new form of elite in the post-communist societies of Eastern Europe. The book explores countries such as Russia, Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, delving into the social, economic, and political factors that have contributed to the rise of this elite class.

Shlapentokh provides a nuanced examination of the characteristics and behaviors of this new elite. The author delves into their backgrounds, education, and career paths, offering insights into how they navigate the changing landscape of their respective nations. Moreover, the book highlights the influence this new elite has exerted on the political and economic systems in these countries.

One of the strengths of this book lies in its empirical approach. Shlapentokh draws on extensive research and interviews with members of the new elite, presenting his findings in a clear and organized manner. This approach allows readers to easily follow along and gain a deeper understanding of the topic. Furthermore, the book offers comparative analysis, enabling readers to grasp the similarities and differences between different countries and their elites.

"The New Elite in Post-Communist Eastern Europe" is a valuable contribution to the study of post-communist societies. By focusing on the emergence of a new elite class, the author sheds light on the dynamics of social change and power structures in these transitioning societies. The book is recommended for scholars and general readers alike who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the complexities of Eastern Europe's post-communist transformation.

"The New Elite in Post-Communist Eastern Europe" written by Vladimir Shlapentokh has garnered positive reviews from readers for its comprehensive exploration of the emergence of a new elite class following the collapse of communism. The book delves into the complexities of post-communist societies, offering an in-depth analysis that is supported by thorough research and data, making it an informative read for those seeking a deeper understanding of the region.

One aspect that readers appreciated was the book's balanced perspective on the new elite. Shlapentokh critically examines their influence and power, as well as their impact on post-communist societies, without overly idealizing or demonizing them. This approach was seen as refreshing and added to the book's credibility.

Another point of praise was the author's ability to present complex concepts in an accessible manner. Shlapentokh's clear writing style made the book enjoyable and engaging, even for readers who were not familiar with the topic. This accessibility was seen as a strength, allowing a wider audience to appreciate the book.

Readers also found value in the book's comprehensive coverage of various countries in Eastern Europe. The comparative analysis provided helped readers gain a broader perspective, enabling them to understand the similarities and differences between countries in their post-communist development.

While the majority of reviews were positive, a few readers expressed concerns about the book's structure and organization. They found it challenging to follow as the author frequently jumped between different topics and countries. However, these criticisms were outweighed by the overall positive reception of the book.

NewElite PostCommunistEurope EasternEuropeBooks