New Books Network Illiberalism, Putin, and the Politics of Religion
Oct 8, 2025
Marlène Laruelle, a research professor at George Washington University and director of the Illiberalism Studies Program, dives deep into the complexities of illiberalism in Russia. She discusses how Putin has intertwined nationalism and conservatism, alongside the pivotal role of religion in Russian politics. The conversation reveals why some in the American right admire Russia, highlighting shared ideologies and spiritual politics. Laruelle also tackles the apocalyptic language shaping Russian elite views on the Ukraine conflict, framing it as a metaphysical battle against liberalism.
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Illiberalism As Backlash Against Liberalism
- Laruelle defines illiberalism as a backlash against liberalism that constructs an alternative political project with specific core features.
- This concept shifts analysis from populism/authoritarianism to ideological critiques of liberalism and its promises.
Illiberalism Requires Prior Liberal Experience
- Illiberal movements presuppose prior liberal experience and arise from perceived failures of liberal promises.
- Laruelle stresses the entanglement of liberal and illiberal elements, not a binary switch.
Illiberalism Engages Geopolitics
- Illiberalism increasingly addresses international order as part of its program, rejecting supranational authority and liberal international norms.
- Globalization forces illiberal actors to adopt explicit stances on world order, not just domestic policy.
