Political Science Professor Researches Russia and Globalization

On September 30, 2016, Dr. Lada V. Kochtcheeva, a political science associate professor, met with 12 faculty members to discuss her research about Russia and globalization. Dr. Kochtcheeva spent a month in Moscow, Russia during the summer of 2016 conducting interviews with experts and the general population.

She interviewed 17 experts in the field, including professors at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO), the Russian University of People’s Friendship, and Academy of Diplomacy of the RF at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The interviews also included researchers at the Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy and International Relations (IMEMO), and experts at the International Analytical Center ReThinking Russia, Russian Council on International Affairs, and Gorchakov Foundation.

These experts see globalization mainly as an economic force. They believe that the world has concepts and theories of globalization, but no institutional response to process it. 

Her research among experts also showed that they believe Russia is struggling to compete in technology and innovation when compared to the Western world.  They confirmed that Russia is very strong in the sectors of atomic energy, space exploration, and defense industry, but it needs to develop innovation beyond these spheres.

Dr. Kochtcheeva also interviewed about 20-25 members of the general population in Moscow. She asked their opinions about the definition of globalization, Russia’s involvement, and positive and negative consequences on Russia.

She found that the general public sees globalization as a cultural and ideological power. They believe it brings people closer together, but they worry about Russian culture being erased.

The faculty members discussed the difficulties Russia faces when it comes to innovation. Dr. Kochtcheeva stated that there is mistrust and misunderstanding between business and government. Russia’s historical legacy and cultural peculiarities also affect innovation that requires risk and large investments.