The Transformation of Public Opinion on Capitalism during Perestroika

Abstract

This article examines the transformation of the image of capitalism in Russian public opinion during Perestroika. The opposition between socialism and capitalism was a key aspect of Soviet ideology and the Soviet system of values. Perestroika triggered new economic practices, such as leasing and cooperatives, which were the first steps in the transition from communism to capitalism. Using various sources (periodical articles, Russian citizens’ letters to officials and to editorial boards), this article investigates Russian people’s attitudes to the development of capitalism in Russia. The early history of capitalism in Russia was turbulent, and people’s attitudes to capitalism were versatile. An analysis of letters by Russian citizens reveals some characteristic features of the Soviet mentality and assesses Soviet people’s attitudes to capitalism through the prism of a Soviet mentality that rejected the idea of wealth accumulation, preached social equality, extolled social labor, but admired dictatorship as the best form of social organization. Hence, people expressed their vehement disapproval of cooperatives and demanded that the latter should be immediately closed. The author underlines that the image of capitalism underwent a certain transformation in public opinion, which can be seen in infrequent but comprehensive letters written by Soviet citizens who highlighted the necessity of market economy, stressing its advantages.