Stephen Kotkin: Stalin, Putin, and the Nature of Power | Lex Fridman Podcast #63 | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Steven Kotkin discusses the rise and power of Joseph Stalin, highlighting the need for a deep historical understanding of power and the importance of avoiding its abuse in the present day.

Key Insights

• ✊ Power must be understood and analyzed from historical and psychological perspectives to prevent its abuse or misuse.
• ✊ Constraints on executive power through institutional mechanisms, such as a separation of powers, are fundamental to a healthy democratic system.
• ✊ The desire for power is influenced by various factors such as upbringing, values, and ambition, and not everyone craves unconstrained power.
• 🖐️ Russia's history and current political climate play a significant role in the attraction to authoritarian power.
• ✊ The success of an individual in attaining and maintaining power is a result of their skills, drive, and the circumstances in which they find themselves.
• 🥅 The goals of communism and the implementation of communist regimes, such as Stalin's, have resulted in tyranny, violence, and economic hardships.
• 🧑‍💼 The discussion around capitalism and socialism needs to consider the lessons from historical implementations and the potential trade-offs between freedom and equality.
• 🙈 Meaningful change and progress can be achieved through the expansion of the category of citizen and the continuous improvement of institutions over time, as seen in the American Revolution's evolution.

Transcript

the following is a conversation with Steven Kotkin a professor of history at Princeton University and one of the great historians of our time specializing in Russian and Soviet history he has written many books on Stalin in the Soviet Union including the first to of a three-volume work on Stalin and he's currently working on volume three he may hav... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: Do all human beings crave power?

While all humans desire security, love, adventure, and power to varying degrees, not everyone craves unconstrained power. The desire for power is deeply rooted in psychology and can be influenced by upbringing, values, and ambitions.

Q: Why is it important to have constraints on executive power?

Constraints on executive power prevent mistakes, extremism, and abuse. Unconstrained executive authority can lead to dictatorships, authoritarianism, and poor decision-making. Checks and balances, such as a separation of powers, ensure better decision-making and prevent the concentration of power in one individual.

Q: Is there a difference in the cultural attraction to authoritarian power in Russia compared to the United States?

While there is some support for authoritarian leadership in both countries, it is not a majority sentiment. In Russia, frustration and impatience with the current political system, along with a longing for quick change, may lead to support for unconstrained executive power. In the United States, this sentiment is also present but is not as widespread.

Q: Can Putin potentially hold power as long as Stalin did?

There is no way to predict the future, but it is not ideal for Putin to stay in power as long as Stalin did. Russia needs a renewal and a choice among alternatives, along with the strengthening of institutions and rule of law. Putin's popularity has fluctuated, and it is uncertain whether he will last as long as Stalin.

Q: Do all human beings crave power?

While all humans desire security, love, adventure, and power to varying degrees, not everyone craves unconstrained power. The desire for power is deeply rooted in psychology and can be influenced by upbringing, values, and ambitions.

More Insights

• Power must be understood and analyzed from historical and psychological perspectives to prevent its abuse or misuse.

• Constraints on executive power through institutional mechanisms, such as a separation of powers, are fundamental to a healthy democratic system.

• The desire for power is influenced by various factors such as upbringing, values, and ambition, and not everyone craves unconstrained power.

• Russia's history and current political climate play a significant role in the attraction to authoritarian power.

• The success of an individual in attaining and maintaining power is a result of their skills, drive, and the circumstances in which they find themselves.

• The goals of communism and the implementation of communist regimes, such as Stalin's, have resulted in tyranny, violence, and economic hardships.

• The discussion around capitalism and socialism needs to consider the lessons from historical implementations and the potential trade-offs between freedom and equality.

• Meaningful change and progress can be achieved through the expansion of the category of citizen and the continuous improvement of institutions over time, as seen in the American Revolution's evolution.

Overall, the analysis highlights the importance of historical understanding and the lessons it can provide in shaping the present and future of politics, power, and governance. It emphasizes the need for caution in pursuing extreme ideologies and the value of maintaining a balance between individual freedoms and collective well-being.

Summary

In this conversation, Lex Friedman interviews Steven Kotkin, a professor of history at Princeton University and an expert on Russian and Soviet history. They discuss the psychology of power, the allure of authoritarian leaders, the dangers of unconstrained executive power, and the challenges facing Russia under President Vladimir Putin. Kotkin also provides insights into the rise of Joseph Stalin and the historical context of his power.

Questions & Answers

Q: Do all human beings crave power?

While all human beings crave security, love, adventure, and power to some extent, not everyone craves unconstrained power or the ability to decide life or death for others.

Q: What factors determine an individual's craving for power?

The desire for power can be influenced by one's upbringing, social environment, personal ambitions, and values imparted during childhood. Some individuals may exhibit a craving for leadership positions from a young age, while others may seek power within specific institutions or limited avenues.

Q: Are constraints on executive power necessary?

Yes, constraints on executive power are crucial to prevent abuses and maintain stronger institutions. Unconstrained executive authority can lead to mistakes, extremism, and a lack of accountability. Separation of powers and checks and balances are essential features of a functioning democracy.

Q: Does absolute power corrupt the mind?

The saying that absolute power corrupts absolutely holds some truth. Leaders with unlimited or barely limited executive power are prone to making more mistakes and becoming more extreme in their decision-making. Constraints on executive power help prevent corruption and allow for better decision-making.

Q: Why is it important to have constraints on executive power?

Constraints on executive power are necessary because they prevent abuse, facilitate stronger decision-making processes, and ensure a more balanced distribution of power. Institutional checks and balances, as well as the involvement of multiple stakeholders, lead to better outcomes and prevent undue concentration of power.

Q: Is there a difference in the attraction to authoritarian power between Russian and American people?

While there may be some Russians who crave a strong, unconstrained leader, it is not a cultural trait specific to Russians. Similar sentiments can be found among some Americans as well. The desire for a powerful leader stems from frustration, impatience, and a belief that unconstrained executive power can quickly bring about desired changes.

Q: Why is there still support for Vladimir Putin in Russia?

Putin appeals to different segments of the Russian population, including those who were losers in the transition from communism and those who feel frustrated with the current political system. Putin has also cultivated a sense of national pride and has been successful in standing up to the West. However, there is disillusionment among state officials who see a decline in the country's human capital, infrastructure, and economy.

Q: Could Putin hold power as long as Stalin did?

While it is hard to predict the future, it is not desirable for Putin to hold power as long as Stalin did. Putin's regime has had detrimental effects on Russia, including a loss of human capital and corruption. Russia needs a renewal and a change in trajectory toward stronger institutions, rule of law, and democratic processes.

Q: Can individuals like Gary Kasparov bring about change in Russia?

While individuals like Gary Kasparov may have impressive qualities and provide leadership, lasting change requires strong institutions rather than relying solely on individuals. A group of leaders in a coalition, committed to institutionalizing change and not just personal power, is needed for sustainable transformation.

Q: How did Joseph Stalin amass more power than any man in history?

Stalin's rise to power was influenced by historical events, including World War I and the Russian Revolution. He capitalized on the opportunities presented by the collapse of the czarist regime and the seizure of power by the Bolsheviks. Stalin's position as General Secretary of the Communist Party allowed him to establish a personal dictatorship within the party.

Q: What is the way forward for Russia and its governance?

Russia needs stronger institutions, such as an independent judiciary, a functioning parliament, and open and dynamic markets. Evolving towards a system with checks and balances, rule of law, and a focus on long-term sustainable growth is essential. Change should come from within the regime, with a group of leaders that prioritize institutionalization and reform. Violence or upheaval is not the solution.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Steven Kotkin, a history professor, discusses the rise and power of Joseph Stalin, one of the most powerful humans in history.

• Kotkin emphasizes the need for engineers and scientists to understand the lessons of history, particularly the abuse of power, as they build tools of power in the 21st century.

• He points out the influence of circumstances, individual drive, and psychological factors in attaining and maintaining power, using examples from both the Russian and American contexts.