Between the Rejected Past and an Uncertain Future Russian Media Studies at a Crossroads

Abstract

This chapter presents the state-of-the-art in the rapidly growing field of Russian media studies. It begins by discussing the major works in Soviet media studies, arguing that their potential contribution to the understanding of post-Soviet media developments is often overlooked. It proceeds by discussing the works by Russian and international researchers on the issues related to media change and post-Soviet media developments in the country. In order to produce an all-inclusive review of the works in the field, the chapter turns to the monitoring reports of international organizations. It also reflects upon research attempts to understand the role of the Internet in political and social processes in Russia. After a thorough mapping of the field, the chapter assesses current shortcomings and concludes by suggesting that comparative analysis and further conceptualization of post-totalitarian media evolution should become the next steps for scholarly endeavor.