Technology and Culture in Modern Russia
Abstract
Russians have seen communication and transportation technology facilitate greater interaction between themselves and with foreigners. Some cultural values and beliefs blend, but others clash. Perception, norms and identity act as a filter for interpreting information. Savvy operators can manipulate communication technology to shape cultural expectations, influencing interpretations to their own advantage. The powerful norm of obedience to authority is likely to cause the majority to largely conform to the requirements of authority figures; yet recent history in Russia demonstrates how excessive control ultimately resulted in diminished social trust, with individuals wary of authority and each other. There are limits on how far a person can influence another's ideas and actions. Attempts to assert total control are likely to meet with human creativity finding ways to assert choice. People tend to rely on their own, those who share a common identity, for they most closely share values and interests. Russia has demonstrated how communication technology can serve as a tool to disseminate and reinforce concepts of what is ours while establishing the threat of the Other. When choosing sides on an issue, perceptions of identity influence loyalties. Understanding Russia's current cultural perspective is necessary to properly interpret Russian messages and actions.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA475763
Entities
People
- Joseph Silver
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School