Comparing Post-Soviet Legislatures: A Theory of Institutional Design and Political Conflict (Parliaments & Legislatures (Paperback))

Rating:
Summary: A Comparison of the Soviet Duma and Estonian Riigkogu
Review: Joel Ostrow's analysis of the institutional design of the Soviet Duma and the Estonian Riigikogu is comprehensive and insightful. Ostrow draws on many excellent sources, including copious interviews with governmental officials, to give the reader a picture of just why the Duma failed and the Riigikogu is working. In the end, posits Ostrow, institutional design defines the space in which good ideas either grow or are trapped. Linkages between legislative and governmental functions, as well consensus building, administrative resources, and the expertise of special committees are some of the major facotrs that Ostrow explains and compares. A great book for students of Russia, and an even better one for students of comparative politics.