Russia

Using information from throughout the course, how would you assess Russia as a part of Europe? Culturally, politically, economically?

Russia's geographic proximity to both Asia and Europe has resulted in a distinctive coloration and mixed identities. There is an apparent tendency on the part of many Russians to align themselves with Europe. Reviewing Chepurina's (2011) assertion, this identification appears to be influenced by a preferred association -- much like a person might elevate their status by claiming to live near a more well to do neighborhood. A high flyover review of the articles and readings provides a unique perspective that deeper analysis seems to cloud -- Russia is pegged to Europe as the yuan is pegged to the dollar. As one moves, so moves the other. This is a culturally based analogy, however, not necessarily a political or economic comparison.

The European Union (EU), with its goal of creating...
[ View Full Essay]