Social Engineering: 1920–1930s

Abstract

The paper reviews methodological and substantive aspects having in a new book by Dr. S.A. Krasilnikov, which presents a detailed analysis of social relations and socio-cultural processes that took place in the early Soviet period of Russia’s development. His work presents the author’s concept of the essence of the power system formed in this period and mechanisms of interaction between the authorities and various social groups and periodization of this process. The source base and a large factual material allowed S.A. Krasilnikov to specify the peculiarities of the processes of labor denationalization, including such different groups as peasantry, workers and intelligentsia, as well as to describe the phenomenon of conformism in these groups. Much attention is paid to the problem of forming a new social structure and the use of forced labor. With a general high assessment of the reviewed book, the author highlights controversial issues that require additional study and meaningful discussion.