The Formation of Russia’s Image in the United States (1991-2008): The Problems of Positioning and Perception

Аннотация

The study of the formation of Russia’s image in the United States during the period of 1991-2008 is presented. The dynamics of Russia’s image changes at three levels of perception (the American political elite, the intellectual elite and the public consciousness) is analyzed. It is concluded that the US national interests determine political and intellectual elites’ attitude; mass media form Russia’s image in the public consciousness. It is emphasized that the lack of the clear program of Russia’s image formation abroad leads to a controversial policy in this area. It is stated that Russia’s external image often goes by the wayside in favor of improving the internal political image of the state. It is proposed to use socio-cultural aspects of society, not national interests, as the basis of the formation of Russia’s image abroad; it is necessary to make a complex impact on all levels of perception according to their peculiarities.