About a Boy: The Story of Vladimir Putin Chapter 3: The Punk
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Oct 11, 2023 This podcast explores how Putin's childhood experiences in the urban courtyard shaped his code of conduct based on physical force. It also discusses his involvement in judo and how it helped him escape his troubled neighborhood. Additionally, the podcast explores Putin's early fascination with the KGB and his rise to power as the president of Russia.
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Courtyard As Formative Social School
- The Dvor (urban courtyard) functioned as a formative, all-day social school for Soviet boys.
- It enforced a harsh honor code based on reputation, physical power, and permanent records of behavior.
Unwritten Rules Enforced Constant Vigilance
- The Dvor enforced unwritten, flexible rules called pinaetia that kept kids constantly vigilant.
- Social credibility hinged on following promises, fighting when required, and never showing weakness.
Size Determined Status — Or Alternatives
- Physical strength and visible toughness governed status in the Dvor; compromise and weakness were severely penalized.
- Being small forced boys like Putin to seek alternative ways to project power and avoid predation.