Communism and Modernity

Examines the collapse of communism from the perspective of more general crisis tendencies inherent in modernity, arguing that communism may represent not a failed revolt against modernity, but the embodiment of a self-destructive version of modernity. A hermeneutical historical analysis of the notion of modernity is offered, noting disagreements & evolving theoretical concepts. The history of communist regimes is traced within this context, describing their modernizing dynamic in the areas of politics, industrialization, & education. The Marxian project & its Bolshevik transformation are chronicled in evaluating whether communism can be considered a distinctive project of modernity, particularly noting its borrowings from the Russian tradition. The pattern of modernity that developed under the Soviet model is examined in terms of its ideological, cultural, economic, & structural aspects, highlighting notions of integration & differentiation. The crisis dynamics underlying the communist version of modernity are analyzed, along with the attempts at crisis management by the state in response to both internal changes & the external political situation. The self-presentation & ultimate impact of the failed Soviet model of modernity are assessed within a global context. K. Hyatt Stewart