Democratic university administration at a Russian university - A case study

In this case study the author examines how effectively democracy functions at a Russian university during the post-Soviet period. In doing research fo r this article, the author conducted a literature review and interviewed in -depth the leading political actors. The author finds that at least at this Russian university, which is beleaguered by an extreme lack of resources, politics is largely devoid of ideological content, but it is highly faction al and contentious. The author concludes that the highly divisive nature of politics at this institution is probably indicative of the lack of a civil society in the broader Russian society.