Introduction

Abstract

This book aims to provide an overview of the Soviet Union, and to evaluate a fairly wide range of material with a view to making a theoretical contribution to the sociology of the Soviet Union. It is hoped to throw new light on the empirical evidence discussed, but it cannot claim to be a definitive analysis. The large number of lengthy works on quite specific aspects of Soviet history and social structure should make it clear that it is beyond the capacity of any one person to provide a definitive account of such a vast, complex and controversial society. Consequently, while covering quite a broad range of issues, I have tried to do so in a spirit of contributing to a continuing debate, rather than of settling those issues.