Eight Hundred Years of Russian Despotism

In this podcast episode, Jonathan Kay engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Orlando Figes about the roots of Russian despotism, drawing insights from Figes' book "The Story of Russia." They examine how factors like Russia's geography, Mongol heritage, and Orthodox faith have created a culture that supports authoritarian rule. The conversation touches on significant themes such as the connection between state and Tsar power, the complexities of Westernization within a traditional society, and how historical events and geography have influenced Russian identity and governance. Ultimately, this episode provides a deeper understanding of the elements that have shaped Russia's political and social landscape.