Russian Society and the Orthodox Church examines the Russian Orthodox Church's social and political role and its relationship to civil society in post-Communist Russia. It shows how Orthodox prelates, clergy and laity have shaped Russians' attitudes towards religious and ideological pluralism, which in turn have influenced the ways in which Russians understand civil society, including those of its features - pluralism and freedom of conscience - that are essential for a functioning democracy. It shows how the official church, including the Moscow Patriarchate, has impeded the development of civil society, while on the other hand the non-official church, including nonconformist clergy and lay activists, has promoted concepts central to civil society.

About the Author

Zoe Knox is a Post-Doctoral Fellow in the Centre for European Studies at Monash University, Melbourne. Her research interests include Russian Orthodoxy and democracy; the Orthodox Church and Russian national identity; religion and post-Soviet nationalism; and religion and national identity in postcommunist states.

Reviews

'Knox makes a novel contribution to the literature on the post-communist ROC as she provides an in-depth analysis of the political opinions advanced by Orthodox clerics and lay-people.' - Slovo, 17.2

Book Information
ISBN 9780415320535
Author Zoe Knox
Format Hardback
Page Count 270
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 521g