The Political Economy of Inequality in Russia

This book analyzed the political and economic factors affecting redistribution by estimating the extent of Russian inequality, and identifying redistribution as a regulator that lowers market inequality. According to the author, it is important to understand that low growth and inequality have come from political choices, not only from simple economic matters. Determining the minimum wage and determining the degree of redistribution through tax and social spending are political factors. Looking at Russian inequality from a political-economic point of view is linked to the authors’ interest field.

The Book consists of the following four parts. First, It analyzed the degree of inequality in Russia. The author explained poverty through the inequality of wealth, not only by income inequality. Second, it explained the process in which the state was captured by social forces as reforms proceeded without a specific roadmap. Third, the possibility was estimated which the inequality of market income can be improved through redistribution, by considering the inequality of Russia connected with the stagnation and privatization process in the transition process. Fourth, the analysis of the Russian case on the relationship between democracy and inequality explored the effect of redistribution and voters’ voting choice. Furthermore, the author noted that, in general, the authoritarian regime is less likely to be held accountable to voters even under a democratic system. In the long term, when the stable democracy is settled, the diagnosis that the inequality will be reduced can be confirmed more specifically through the book.

Introduction
Chapter 1. Inequality in Russia
Chapter 2. Political Economy of Inequality in Russsia 1
Chapter 3. Political Economy of Inequality in Russsia 2
Chapter 4. Democracy and Inequality
Conclusion