Russian Self-Perception and International Views on Russia

Russia, a nation with a rich and complex cultural, historical, and political identity, holds a distinctive view of its place in the world. This view is often characterized by a sense of superiority, a belief in divine ordination, and a strong sense of impending existential threats. Understanding these perspectives is crucial for comprehending Russia's role in global affairs and the way other nations perceive its actions and intentions.

Russia's Self-Perception

For many Russians, their nation is seen as inherently superior and favored by God. This belief is deeply ingrained in their psyche, equated with many tribal views, where they consider themselves first among equals, possessing an inherent right to an empire that has been unfairly denied. This perception balances the idea of invincibility and divine favor with a constant state of being under siege.

These beliefs appear prominently in Russian rhetoric and propaganda, especially among those who advocate for a more assertive and traditionalist approach to international relations. Russian propagandists often portray the country as a pure, loyal, and moral Christian Orthodox nation, seen as the savior of morality and wholesomeness, standing against a global tide of moral degradation and decadence.

The Contradiction Within

Despite this self-perception, Russians must also grapple with economic and political challenges. The crumbling national status and domestic decay create a stark contrast with their self-image. How do Russians reconcile their divine favor with real-world issues like corruption, underdevelopment, and the failure to exert control over neighboring nations? The answer lies in the concept of Russia as a victim of Western malevolence and manipulative propaganda.

Mother Russia, as she is affectionately called, is seen as a brave and pure Christian nation, while Western countries are portrayed as decadent and immoral, bent on preventing her from achieving her rightful place. Any unfavorable information is dismissed as Western propaganda, and any neighboring countries that resist Russian demands are deemed puppets controlled by the West, poised to undermine Mother Russia's sovereignty.

International Views on Russia

From an international perspective, Russia's behavior and rhetoric are often viewed with suspicion and concern. Other nations see Russia's actions through a lens of security and strategic competition. The west, in particular, views Russia as a revisionist power seeking to challenge the post-Cold War order and exert influence in its traditional spheres of influence.

Historical events and geopolitical dynamics have shaped these views. Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, its interference in the Ukrainian conflict, and its assertive posture in international organizations like the United Nations are seen as manipulative and threatening by many countries and international bodies. These actions are often interpreted as part of a broader strategy to disrupt the stability and security of the region and challenge Western dominance.

Double Think and Escalation

The Russian perspective frequently relies on a paradoxical form of thinking, where they believe in their own divine favor while simultaneously attributing malevolent intentions to other nations. This conflicting narrative creates a situation where adverse information is readily dismissed, and any success or stability in neighboring countries is attributed to external forces, rather than internal factors.

When challenged on these points, Russians tend to either avoid the conversation or provide half-baked and easily refuted sources, often engaging in what can be seen as an exercise in doublethink. The term doublethink, originally coined by George Orwell, involves holding two contradictory beliefs simultaneously and believing both of them to be true. In the Russian context, this belief in superiority and victimhood coexists with a narrative of active Western aggression.

In conclusion, Russia's self-perception and its relationship with the world are defined by a complex mix of historical, cultural, and ideological factors. Understanding these elements is essential for navigating the nuanced dynamics of international relations and addressing the challenges and conflicts that arise from this unique perspective.