W. Bruce Lincoln

In the following viewpoint, W. Bruce Lincoln, a history professor at Northern Illinois University, contends that Russia has a strong historical legacy of autocracy that goes back centuries. Because of this tradition of rule imposed from above—a tradition enshrined by decades of Communist rule—the Russian people lack the sense of civic responsibility that enables democracies to function in other countries. Lincoln predicts that at some point in the future, Russians will probably look to a dictatorial leader to establish internal order and reclaim Russia’s place as a world power.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What has been the consistent result in Russia’s history when its rulers have attempted to open public debate about national goals...