Soviet Intellectuals and Political Power

Exploring the intricate relationship between Soviet political leaders and intellectuals, this work delves into their mutual dependence and conflict from Stalin's era to Gorbachev's Glasnost. The author, a former Soviet sociologist, highlights the significant role of literature and film in political dissent, the various levels of opposition, and the pervasive atmosphere of paranoia instigated by the KGB. The portrayal of the intellectual community reveals its evolution under different regimes, showcasing how it has navigated periods of cautious tolerance and repression since the 1950s.