Two Worlds, One Blog…

Understanding the American Character (February 1st, 2021)

What is the origin of their differences?

19th century French sociologist Alexis de Tocqueville’s observations of the American character identified its society by specific categories. He classified the average American as consumed with an idea of personal freedoms. The practice of finding reason within oneself rather than relying on tradition or the community separates Americans from Russians. Russian character development is more heavily influenced by religion (specifically Orthodox Christianity) and the upkeep of tradition in the community. Russia has a rich history, complemented by tradition and culture. America, a younger country, is constrained by fewer traditions. De Tocqueville took note of this, classifying the US as a place empty of institutions or traditions whether it be religion, family, or class. This ties back to American individualism.

Tyranny of the majority is also prominent in American society. Americans tend to consider themselves equal which results in a feeling of insignificance in the general community. This exacerbates their hunger for validation. Public opinion is greatly valued with specific focus on achievement and success to be openly displayed. This could explain why Americans are typically more extroverted and less selective with the people to which they are willing to entertain. Russian culture creates an element of secrecy between strangers and conversations rarely concern personal success, achievements, or future plans.

There is an unmistakable American optimism which stems from a Western focus on improvement and general positive outcomes. This can be noticed through simple everyday interactions among Americans where the social norm encourages us to smile often, compliment each other, and exude positivity. This creates a space where mental health transparency and psychiatry are centered. Russians remain more closed and circumspect about such things.

Understanding the Russian Character (February 14, 2021)

Let's recount Russian history. The country was dominated by autocratic rule to benefit the state at the expense of the individual. Meanwhile, America’s history is that of a new nation being settled by rugged individuals. It is fair to say that Russia endured a painful history with its leaders by comparison. Ruthless dictatorships instilled distinct fears into the Russian people that have been passed down through generations. An example is the obsession with secrecy and security that permeated Russia during the reign of Ivan the Terrible. This fear renewed in the Soviet Union under the rule of Lenin and Stalin. Their era of Soviet leadership restricted individual freedoms which fostered a community of vigilant people. The Soviet state security apparatus was famously heedful of any signs of change with the potential to undermine the institutions set in place. An attempt to innovate or resist risked punishment and forced Russians to conform to the beliefs and principles of society. In turn, these beliefs were ingrained into the Russian mindset.

A version of this suspicion still persists. Feelings of mistrust are conveyed through the stereotypical cold and unfriendly Russian demeanor. It is important to understand that Russian nature is inherently conservative, stemming from widespread Orthodox identity in the country. Religious conformity with the Russian Orthodox Church defined the pre-Soviet culture. It reemerged in post-Soviet Russia to play a central, stabilizing role both politically and culturally. With this religious conservatism comes a confidence in the Russian view of right and wrong and a foundation for the Russian attitude. Russians seem tough on the outside despite (generally) having a vast empathetic and selfless capacity at their core. The lengths a Russian will go for their trusted community is unmistakable. Themes of self-sacrifice and moral conscience are commonly seen in Russian literature and films. Take the renowned works of author Dostoyevsky or filmmaker Tarkovsky that remain in high regard to this day.

A large portion of populations in major cities like Moscow are people who are only three generations removed from peasant towns, myself included. Our grandparents have instilled their tough love into us. Our ancestors have left their imprint on modern social norms. In political systems such as tzarist and Soviet Russia, the interests of the state are placed ahead of the individual. This encouraged neighbors in a Russian Soviet community to vigilantly protect the state by reporting on each other’s transgressions, whether real or invented. Only family and close friends could be trusted while opening up to a stranger risked danger. Unlike the American emphasis on the self, Russians value their community above all. Russian patriotism and loyalty to the state is strongly felt.