The Withering Away of the Totalitarian State: And Other Surprises (Aei Studies, 498)

By Jeane J. Kirkpatrick

Book Overview

These essays track the dramatic developments set in motion by the perestroika revolution of Mikhail Gorbachev, whose goal is the transformation of Soviet style communism from within. This collection does not simply recapitulate what happens but explains - step by step - which changes were important and why. They tell us when Gorbachev began to ask new questions and set new goals and what these mean for the foundations of Soviet power. The analysis reflects the author's realistic understanding of the Soviet state and ideology the legitimizes it, and also her broad personal experience with foreign leaders and foreign policy. Kirkpatrick was the first woman to serve as US representative to the UN.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0844737275
• ISBN13: 9780844737270
• Release Date: November 1990
• Publisher: University Press of America
• Length: 300 Pages
• Weight: 1.54 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.0" x 1.1" x 6.0"

Customer Reviews

A treat for policy wonks and soccor moms alike!

In her most surprising and unexpected book yet, Ms. Kirkpatrick shows her flair for foreign policy, and also her flair in the kitchen! Sandwiched between erudite analysis of the geopolitical consequences of the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Ms. Kirkpatrick also treats her readers to some of her favorite casseroles, cakes, and holiday hosting recipes. Delightful, low-calorie dishes abound, all in the midst of some of the finest insight to today's international crises. Best known for her laser-sharp policy-wonk intellect, Ms. Kirkpatrick combines a matronly warmth with iron-willed hawkishness as she effortlessly swings from such disparate topics as trade deficits, beauty tips for teens, arms embargos, tempting seasonal pies, and relationship advice. Her disapproval of today's "loose" fashions is eloquently displayed in Chapter 8, where she finds the modern practice of girls allowing their ankles to peek from under their dress hems "disgracefully Clintonian." Stongly advocating the use of subdued, plain colors on conservative attire, Kirkpatrick assails today's bright hues as "nothing short of a socialist invasion of our moral rectitude." Later, in a surprising turn of tone, Kirkpatrick shows her awareness of modern slang by suggesting that Gorbachev's perestroika initiatives "were really just about the bling-bling." Recommended to all who seek a better understanding of today's international problems in the Balkins, as well as the perfect recipe for sinfully decadent chocalate mousse.