This book traces the politics of transition in the late 1980s and early 1990s from its origins to its uncertain post-communist future. The authors analyse the full impact of transition of official and popular values, central and local political institutions, post-Soviet republics, the CPSU and the parties which replaced it, and political participation.

1. Beyond marxism; 2. Reforming the electoral system; 3. Structures of government; 4. The presidency and central government; 5. From union to independence; 6. Patterns of republic and local politics; 7. The withering away of the party; 8. The emergence of competitive politics; 9. The politics of economic interests; 10. Public opinion and the political process; 11. Letters and political communication; 12. The Soviet transition and 'democracy from above'.