...

TilE AMERicAN SOViET WAlk

ENdiNG AN ARMS RACE Nobody WANTS
WALkER INfoRMATioN MANUAL
international peace walk, inc.
national office field office
4521 campus drive temple heights station
box 387 p.o. box 53412
irvine, california 92715 washington, d.c. 20009
(714) 675-1290 (202) 232-7055
telex: 3727090 ipw
-.
Welcome,
We hope you find this information helpful. The success of our
Walk depends in part upon our preparedness and level of
education.
Of the vast array of material about the Soviet Union, we have
selected a sampling. The enclosed pages are readings which we
found informative and exciting, leading to a desire to learn
more.
Much of the content of this Manual is excerpted from a book
compiled by the Center for US-USSR Initiatives, an organization
which has facilitated many citizen trips to the Soviet Union.
Additional sources are the American Friends Service Committee and
also Educators for Social Responsibility.
A three-member International Peace Walk delegation will meet one
week (May 4 to May 10) in Moscow with the Soviet Peace Committee.
Upon its return we will send you a second mailing which will also
contain information compiled by American Field Service, Inc. This
group, with much experience in cross-cultural education, is
organizing our orientation program in Washington, D.C. along with
our Philadelphia Support Group.
A third mailing,
information, will
ington.
with last minute details and scheduling
arrive shortly before our gathering in Wash-
We hope in this way to answer most of your questions about the
trip. If questions do remain, the Philadelphia Support Group is
available to answer telephone inquiries. Call Bob Alei, Steve
Brigham, Sue DeLettera, Stephanie Nichols and Mark Hengstler at
215-438-0178.
The latter three selected and reviewed the material for this
Manual. Further material and editing was provided by Gene Gordon
in Recruitment.
Peace to you all, and happy reading!
Allan Affeldt
IPW President
-.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Map of Route .......................................... 1
Tentative Itinerary and Weather .............................. 2
Statement of Purpose .......................................... . 3
Show and Tell 4
Wha t to Bring 5
.7
Health Ti ps . ............ .................................
Cyrillic Alphabet 8
Customs Information 9
Money, Credi t Card, Shopping ..................... 10
Institute for Soviet American Relations ............. 11
Brief History of the USSR ......................... 13
What About the Russians and Nuclear War? ............... 16
US/USSR Mindsets ............................... 20
Miscellaneous Information 22
Cul tural Norms 23
Commun i cat ion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Gifts 31
Do's and Don't's 32
Precautions 33
Recommended Reading .
34
Facilitators at Orientation ..................35
KALININ
OBLAST
Map of The American Soviet Walk Route
Leningrad to Moscow - Oblasts and republics
are analo&ous to states.
S c ~ l e - I inch - 63 miles
o 100 200
I , ,
TilE AMERicAN SOViET WAlk
ENdiNG AN ARMS RACE Nobody WANTS
FINLAND
LITHUANIAN
REPUBLIC
THE
BALTIC
SEA
north
~
.
June
8-11
12
13-15
16
17
18
19-20
21
22
23
24-25
26
27
28
29
30
July
t
4
6
7
8-11
12
\
Tentative Itinerary
Orientation, all 200 IPW walkers, tent encampment in Washington, D.C.
Charter flight to Leningrad from Washington
Orientation with 200 SPC walkers (all 400 walkers together), Pelrodvorets. the Hermitage, etc. Leningrad
Walk begins down the road to Moscow.
Night in Tosno
Seltso
Chudovo
Novgorod
Kretsy. New Rahino
Padhuno, Viypolsovo
Torzhok
Kalinin
Zavidovo
Senej
Istra
Enter Moscow area
American Soviet Peace City, Moscow, tent encampment in public park
Moscow tours, programs and interactions
Global Interdependence Day Celebration
Moscow concert - proposed "walk and roll summit."
He-orientaucn and goodbyes to Soviet walkers .
Charter flight from MoscoYJ to Washington D.C.
Tent encampment in Washington. Press visits, goodbyes, and re-acculturation.
The American Soviet Walk officially ends.
WEATHER
Leningrad and the area surrounding it enjoy mild summer, when
twilight lingers until midnight. In Moscow, and all of Central
Russia, summers are usually hot.
Leningrad
Moscow
Hi
66
67
JUNE
Low
51
50
Hi
71
71
JULY
Low
57
54
Degrees Farenheight
Raingear required. Rainfall levels in June and July are quite
high in this part of the country.
2
STATEMENT of PURPOSE
The purpose of ThE AMERiCAN SOViET WAlk is to draw auention to the need to end the arms race before It
ends us, and to provtde a positive model for the resolution of Intemotl onal and cross cultural confllcL
As citizens. we cannot enact the legislation that will end t}'le arms race, but we can help to create a climate
in which such legislation is Increasingly likely. We walk as Americans and Soviets, together. to demonstrate that
people from different cultures. notions. Ideologies and generations can live and work together for common goals
and on the common ground of our shared humanity. By walking. talking and listening to each other in diverse
groups focused on our shared concems, we gain insight and perspective into how our conflicts began. and how
they might be resolved.
We use walking first. as a metaphor for what we believe needs to happen:
personal and physical involvement
slowing down
comparing our actions to their objectives
taking the time to understand each other
and carefully planning. together, our next move.
But walking together as citizen diplomats is more than just a metaphor-It is also a process and a grounding,
the very oct of which leads to the resolutions and understandings we seek.
We believe that the arms race can be reversed. and that this Ismost likely to take place In the context of a dramatic
improvement of relations between the United States and the Soviet Union. We also believe that this change can
be encouraged through significant civilian. cultural and trade exchanges; and that these will create a climate in
which action can be taken to end the moral. economic. and suicidal illogic of the arms race. If we are right, the
walk we are developing will ploy a rale in the evolution of civilized relations between our two nations.
Short term planning
fear
ignorance
greed
and unrestrained/ unfocused technology
have provided us with 60.000 nuclear bombs-the equtvclent explosive power of over a million Hiroshlmaswaiting
to happen. or on equal allocation of over 4 TONS of TNT for every man. woman, and child on the face of the
earth. Stili, we spend our most precious resources building 6 more nuclear bombs each day. and putting them
on ever faster and more accurate. automatic. long distance. hair trigger. computer gUided delivery systems.
There must be a better way to go about addressing legitimate security and defense concems than threatening
to blow up our global home if we. or they, don't get things "our way."
It is time for a change.
We prapose-
the pursuit of diplomacy in place of rhetenc and hollow promises.
of reductions instead of technological fixes.
and of cooperation as on alternative to confrontation.
Surely if the worldwide resources we now use to project fear and propagate war were Instead wisely applied
towards serving humanity we would have less to tight about. less to be In want of. and less reason to be afraid.
We must be custodians and protectors of all life on this earth if there Is to be any human future.
We need to start now.
3
Examples of Show and Tell
art submitted by children
will be found on pages 22,
32, and 33.
PLEASE MAIL YOUR PAGES TO:
American Soviet Walk
Show and Tell
4521 Campus Dr. Suite 387
Irvine, CA 92715
sltow ANd TlL
We want Americans and Soviets to come to know
each other on the most basic level - as people with
ashared desire for peace. To this end, we are put-
ting together "Show and Tell" albums, designed to
let us meet each other although thousands of miles
apart. To fill these albums. we are asking everyone
who can tosend us an 8 1/2" X11" page of photo-
graphs, drawings, poetry - any expression of
themselves or their desire for peace. Soviets. like
Americans, love pictures - one of you and your fam-
ily with a brief description of your lives would be
wonderful!
be CREATivE!
Reach out toeveryone who might want tobe apart
ofthis project. Schools, churches, organizations and
friends are good choices. We'll be taking all the pages
we get by June 1with us on this year's walk toshare
with all the Soviet citizens we meet. In the months
to come, we hope to have hundreds ofvolumes from
both countries to share with people everywhere and
to build bridges ofhumanity. Get everyone you know
to create a pagel
Although only afew people will be able towalk with
us on this year's American Soviet Walk, we hope to
show the Soviet people that there are thousands and
thousands of Americans who want tolive with them
in a world of international peace and cooperation.
Peace, after all, is not merely the absence of war.
It is the presence of friendship.
We have assembled a list of things you will need for our trip to
the Soviet Union. Some items are difficult to purchase in the
USSR so consider carefully what you want to bring.
CLOTHING:
Underwear
wool 01'" wool blend socks
1 01'" 2 pairs of pants
3 01'" 4 t-shirts
2 01'" 3 pairs walking shorts
1 01'" 2 long sleeve shirts
1 01'" 2 sweat shirts 01'" sweaters
light weight jacket
2 pairs of comfortable walking shoes
good lightweight raingear (gortex>
CAMPING EQUIPMENT:
Tent to accomodate yourself and other
Pad and sleeping bag
Flash light
Day backpack or fannie pack
Water bottle
PERSONAL:
Camera
Batteries
Medications
Journal and pens
First aid:
blister r-el ief
lotion
Band-aids
Indegestion relief
Ka ope c t a t e
Laxatives
Bug repellent
Aspirin
Any items which you feel you may need
Tampons, pads (they d o ~ ' t exist in the USSR!!!)
We are not sure of how much space each person will -have to stow
gear on the Walk, but hope to know for sure when our delegation
returns. More info in next mailing.
5
MORK TIPS
TUINGS YOU MAY WANT TO TAKE WITU YOU TO THE USSR
-------------------
Wash cloth --------chances are you will have pIe nt y of Cowels, but no wash cl och,
Soap is soap, buc if you want a good lacher, Cake your own
Bachcub stopper ---standard rubber disk - they are vircually non-existent.
Bottle opener ------most likely, the hotel room wonOt have one.
Lomotil -----------you will be eating strange foods, stomach upsets are frequent.
Cough medicine -----available but not too tasty - throat lozenges handy to have.
Vitamins------------there is no problem at Customs with prescription meds or
vitamins.
Eat/Drink ----------Packets of coffee, chocolate, tea bags, Tang or
powdered juices or soups. Hot water is always available.
Dried fruits, sunflowers seeds, peanut butter, prunes, nuts
and raisins make good snacks.
Toi l.et articles --cosmet i.cs , toothpas te, sanitary napkins, bandaids, toi let
tissue. Public restrooms seldom have paper (Soviets carry
their own). In our hotels it will be provided but is coarser
than ours.
Converter---------if you use hairdryer, curler, electric razor, iron, etc'
t
you will need an adapter/converter for 220V.
Film -------------take plentyl It can be bought but is expensive.
Travel alarm------wake-up calls are provided but sometimes not dependable .
Detergent ---------for clothes washing. Rooms are warm enough to dry clothes
over night.
Eyeglasses --------take two pairs. It is miserable to lose or break glasses and
have no replacements.
Journal-----------Our notes are frequently the second most important item we
take home (besides our photographs, of course); frequently
even the camera capture what our words on the spot can.
I
MEDICATIONS AND VITAMINS
MEDICATIONS
Bring with you an adequate supply of all prescription medicines,
cough syrup, something for stomach upset, aspirin, and other
first aid medications if you use them. If you have . any health
problem, you can be assureq doctors are readily available in
every hotel, and they do make house (room) calls. When we were in
Moscow, our roommate thought she might be getting pneumonia. The
doctor, an attractive young woman, was there in less than thirty
minutes and prescribed medication that had our friend on her feet
sight-seeing again the next day.
Stomach upsets are not uncommon among travelers. Take along
whatever medication works best for you . Many swear by A C i ~
capsules which can be purchased in health food stores 1n e US.
VITAMINS
Take an ample supply of whatever you use. Be you own wellness
expert.
WATER
Water is safe to drink in Moscow and in most other cities in the
USSR. However, we have been cautioned against drinking the water
in Leningrad. Bottled water may be purchased in most hotels. Try
to keep some good water in your plastic water container. But even
brushing one's teeth in Leningrad tap water is unadvisable.
Brushing teeth in club soda is an exper ience!
SMOKING
Be particularly courteous about smoking. Buy everything you need
before you depart. Cigarettes in the USSR are expensive and less
available than in the US.
7
You are about to encounter what at first sight may look like a very
complex method of writing, but which really need not frighten you
at all. If you look at a page of printed Russian, it will undoubtedly
look like Greek to you. This is perfectly natural in as much as the
Russian or Cyrillic alphabet stems largely [rom the Greek. But even
if you have not studied Greek, you will not find it too difficult, because
you already know many of the letters. Take for example the word
"America". In Russian this comes out AMepHKa. With the excep-
tion of the substitutions of different letters for R and I, it looks
pretty much the same, doesn't it? Now, knowing that the letter
H, which looks like an N backwards, is an I, can you tell what MHaMH
is? You are right; it is "Miami".
Therefore, instead of learning the complete new alphabet, remem-
ber only that certain letters are the same as ours; a second group looks
like ours but has different values; and a third group consists of some
picturesque letters which will be completely new to you. Fortunately
this last group is not large.
Here are the three groups:
1. The following letters are common to both languages: A. E, K.
M. 0, T.
2. The following letters exist in English but have different values
in Russian:
B pronounced as English V
H II II N
P II .. R
C" .. S
Y II II 00
X II .. KlI
and R written backwards: St, which is equivalent to uYAlI" in
English.
3. The following letters are equivalent to English letters or com-
binations of letters:
6 s B
r G
JJ. D
Yo (pronounced like Yo in York)
}Ii Soft J (like the S in pleasure)
3 Z
H I (pronounced EE)
n Y (pronounced as the English Y in boy)
n L
n p
cI F
U Tz
If Ch
W Sh
ll( Shch
:3 E (as in get)'
10 U (as in cute)
8
a
(6) )
B
I"
)l
e
is
lK
3
H
A
K
JI
II
H
o
n
p
C
T
Y
cIJ
X
I(
If
W
lIt
'b
hi
b
s
10
JI

c.\[L!P[Mlc.\OO[]'
ah
bela -
ven -
ggtla -
aeh
yela
yah -
zh6h ...
un
ee
ee JaABT-koh"64
kah
el
em
en
ola
pen
el
teh
00 -
ef
khah -
tseh -
chah -
shah -
shchah -
(tv'YOa-de6 zJUJU)
yeh-REE
(m'YAu-ke6 znahk)
eh (oh-boh-ROBT-noh-yeh)
yoo
yah
SOVIET CUSTOMS AND CURRENCY REGULATIONS FOR FOREIGN TOURISTS
A tourist must fill out a customs declaration - one upon entering
the USSR and another when leaving the country.
The customs declaration fi lled out upon entry into the
remains i n the tourist's possesion throughout his stay in
USSR. If a customs declaration is lost it is not renewed and
person who loses i t also loses the right to take out of
country the articles, currency and valuables ind icated in
declaration.
Tourists entering the USSR can bring with them:
USSR
the
the
the
the
rubles ) promissory notes, checks,
limitation of sum but subject to
customs.
1. Personal belongings in amounts necessary for the stay in the
USSR.
2. Tourist and sports articles necessary for the. stay in the USSR
with due account for the nature of the tour (duty free).
3. Inexpensive souvenirs in reasonable quantities (duty free).
4. No more than 250 cigarettes or 250 grams of other tobacco
products (d uty free).
5. Any currency (except Soviet
f o r e i ~ n currency without
oligatory registration with
It is forbidden to bring into the USSR:
1. Military weapons of any kind and ammunition for them.
2. Narcotics and devices for their us e .
3. Pornographic literature and pictures.
4. Printed matter, manuscripts, photographs and other mater ials
detrimental to the USSR politically or economically.
5. Meat products (exclUding canned meat).
When leaving the USSR tourists may take with them:
1. Personal belongings , tourist and sports articles that were
brought into the USSR upon entry.
2. Articles purchased with legally acquired Soviet money.
3. Inexpens ive souviners received as gifts.
4. Articles purchased at "Beriozka" stores for freely convertible
currency without a limit on quantity, on presentation to the
customs of payment receipts from these stores.
5. No more than one liter of spirits, two l iters of wine, 250
c igarettes, 200 grams of ground or instant coffee, -- 150 grams
of black or red cavier, 200 grams of spices.
6. Any currency, etc. brought into the USSR and registered with
customs.
It is forbidden to take out of the USSR:
1. Military weapons of any kind, ammunition for them and military
equipment.
2. Antiques and works of art such as paintings, draWings,
sculptures, carpets, icons, church and household articles, arms,
furniture, fabrics, ornaments, clothes, manuscripts and books,
musical instruments, articles of archaeological value.
3. Meat products (with the exception of canned meat).
MONEY, CREDIT CARDS, SHOPPING
MONEY
How much money you take is up to you. If you are a souviner buyer
you may need more than the person who buys an occasional momento.
Based on our experience with former travelers, the average person
takes $200-$300 in Traveler's Checks. They should be in smaller
denominations of $10 and $20.
Also - since we will be away from commercial centers a good deal
of the time - we should carry perhaps $50 in US bills. When we do
stay at a hotel, we can use dollar bills at the cash "Dollar
Bars" to purchase soft and hard drinks, fruit juices, bottled
water, and club soda with which to brush our teeth in our
Leningrad hotel room.
The Russian ruble is not tied to the Western money market, so it
does not fluctuate on a daily basis. The State sets the exchange
rate monthly. One ruble to $1.40 is typical. The ruble is divided
into 100
The national currency of the USSR - the ruble - has currency only
on the territory of the USSR, and it is forbidden to take it in
or out of the country, except in specially provided cases.
The official organizations that exchange foreign currency into
rubles are the (State Bank) of the USSR and Vneshtorbank
of the USSR which have a ramified network of branches and
exchange offices throughout the country.- Exchange offices are
located at hotels, camping sites, railway terminals, sea and air
ports and border points. Office hours at exchange offices are
usually from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm. At some hotels and airports they
work around the clock.
A special network of stores accepting payment only in foreign
currency functions on the territory of the USSR. Goods sold at
these stores are mostly of the nature of souviners.
CREDIT CARDS
Visa and American Express are accepted for purchases in the Bery-
ozka stores (Government stores). MasterCharge is also available,
but not everywhere. Do not rely solely on MasterCharge.
SHOPPING
Most people shop in the duty-free Beryozka ("little birch tree")
Government stores. These stores tend to be less expensive than
the other Soviet shops, and they also stock goods unavailable
elsewhere. However, it is fun to explore and to try your hand at
a little shopping in the Russian stores. The procedure is
different than in ours.
You select an item you want from the clerk. She gives you a
receipt and you go to the cashier and pay. Then you return to the
clerk with your receipt marked "paid" and she gives you your pur-
chase. Most Soviet stores don't provide bags or wrapping paper.
10
Message from the President of ISAR
The changes now taking place in the USSR are so broad-based that the
time has come to take a new, hard look at that country and the direction
it is headed. The changes are not superficial, cosmetic changes, but a
radical restructuring which cuts deep down into the consciousness of
Soviet citizens. They are being given more information about problems
in their society and what is going on outside their country. After two
years in power, we have a good idea of what Mikhail Gorbachev is saying,
of the new people he has brought into power and of the structural
changes he is making within the system. We are witnessing the emergence
of a significant world leader who sees the big picture and the
of the interdependent parts.
Reading through the many pages of Gorbachevs recent speeches, one
gets the impression of a stable, energetic, intelligent and determined
man. He does not shy away from the use of such words as
nor from taking personal responsibility for the future of mankind. "Now
is the time for bold and responsible action in the interests of the
whole world," he said to a meeting of writers. He seems to have a sense
of his role as a strong world leader, determined to bring different
interest groups as well as nations together with awareness of their
commoh interests. While he is dealing with difficult internal problems,
bureaucratic inertia, economic stagnation and political self-interest,
as well as serious external problems, he also seems to have a sense of
the historical moment. He recognizes the opportunities to make dramatic
changes in relationships between countries--such as the attempt at
Reykjavik to make a breakthrough in arms control, and the effort to
create a turning point in world opinion by political prisoners
just before inviting world leaders to Moscow for a peace forum. With
his political savvy and pr op Lt Lous sense of timing, he is staying ahead
of the political analysts, but he may be way ahead of his time.
Looking at the dynamics of the relationship, it is interesting to
note how the United States and Soviet Union need each other. In one
way, the conservatives and hard-liners on both sides need an implacable
enemy to justify military expenditures. Gorbachev seems to be aware of
another way in which we need each other when he says: .
"We are aLl 1n one boat. Whether we llke one another or not, it 1S
essential we learn to co-exist, to live in peace on this tiny and very
fragile planet. Our nuclear age of growing economic and political
interdependence rules out the security of one nation to the detriment or
at the expense of the security of another nation. I shall repeat once
again; together we will either perish or survive. Security nowadays can
only be mutual, based on a universal model. We are all different, each
professing different ideologies, political systems, and following one
system of religious belief or another. Nevertheless, we are all very
dependent on one another today . Hence, we should think differently.
We should vigorously search for ways of building new international
relations." (Moscow News, 12/14/86)
With remarkable candor and self-confidence, Gorbachev is allowing
more honesty and truth telling in regard to Soviet history under Stalin
and in facing unpleasant aspects of current problems. The traditional
Soviet pretense of the superiority of their system to all others
is absent from his speeches.' Gorbachev is gi ving his people the bad
news and is telling them that the the system is not working. Instead of
the usual exaggerated boasting, he says that each comrade, including
himself, must learn to do his work in a new way and be open to
Gorbachev has gone beyond propaganda and rhetoric to launch
a series of bold initiatives which have already had a significant impact
11
12
on decision making in the Communist Party, discipline within the KGB,
freedom in the cultural and literary community and tolerance of dissent.
The release of Sakharov and 150 political prisoners by an action of the
Presidium of the Supreme Soviet demonstrates "glasnost" in practice,
signaling that open discussion and criticism of the society's problems
may no longer lead to the gulag.
The criticism now appearing in the Soviet media concerns issues that
in the past were only revealed by illegal, underground Samizdat
publications. A Soviet emigre says, "Ten years ago my friends were sent
to the gulag for saying what official Soviet spokesmen are saying now."
Hard-hitting articles by Richard Pipes, Zbigniew Brzezinski and Senator
Dole have appeared in the Soviet press. Editors of major publications
such as Pravda, Kommunist, Moscow News, Ogonyok and Komsomol are
practicing the new policy of openness by publishing stories about
problems within the USSR, such as food shortages, poor medical
treatment, and infant mortality rates. For the first time people are
reading in the newspapers about KGB abuses of power, corruption among
high party officials, existence of prostitutes, teenage suicide, drug
abuse, crime and increasing abortion rates. Unpleasant as these may be,
their being brought out into the open and publicly is a
healthy sign. These are all problems that used to be swept under the
rug and denied, creating an atmosphere of hypocrisy and falsification.
To be sweeping this debris out in the open contributes to the
revitalization of the society.
Fundamental issues are under discussion and far-reaching decisions
are being made in economics, trade, political, social and cultural
issues. New laws have been passed which begin to institutionalize the
changes Gorbachev has set in motion. A revision of the criminal justice
system is underway which will make it harder in the future to put people
behind bars. Restructuring in the Ministry of Trade will make it easier
to engage in foreign trade. Individual labor legislation has been
passed by the Supreme Soviet encouraging families to take initiatives in
running small businesses. Liberalization in the arte has been gaining
momentum.
At the Plenum Meeting of the Central Committee on January 27,
Gorbachev called for an infusion of new leadership into the party, for
secret balloting and a choice of candidates in party elections which
would give the working people "control from below." He spoke of
legislation being drafted to protect citizens against abuses of power,
and to give people the right to file complaints in court against illegal
actions of officials. In his efforts to democratize Soviet society, he
seems to be trying to move toward the rule of law, away from arbitrary _
decisions made on the whim of petty bureaucrats and to make government -
officials accountable. We should remember, however, that democratization
of Soviet society is a far cry from what is considered democracy in the
USA.
Predicting the success or failure of all Mr. Gorbachev is trying to
do is impossible but once the issues have been brought out into the
open, they will not be easily forgotten or dismissed. A process of
internal dialogue has begun. Gorbachev has undertaken the risky course
of raising the expeotations of the Soviet people and of challenging the
old guard. He is acting as a catalyst for change and releasing the
long-repressed energies of the Soviet people. He recently said, "They
are trying to make me a god, but I am not. If there is a god, it is the
Soviet people." [Wash. Post, 3/9/87] This may be a difficult process
to control, but he has taken the lid off Pandora's box.

DID' HIstORY OF 'l'HE USSR
Centuries of feudalism, barbarism, desperate living and invasions
geographically and culturally isolated from renaissance and developing West
Tsar. church and few rich noblemen ruled with iron hand
Masses slaved for the elite
Russian Orthodox Church supported the elite
Peasants began to unite in l8000s
Tsar was bleeding the country with WWI millions were killed
AristocratOs sons and daughters developed social conscience
1917 Tsar was overthrown and church thrown out
Socialist system installed
1918 fourteen Western countries sent in forces to bring down new government
This fanned unhappy factions factions in the country and Civil War broke out
USSR again lost millions to this internal war
1924 Lenin died - Stalin came to power
Stalin grabbed power in all areas
Country was still illiterate
He began impossible agriculture program and industrialization
Masses relocated, died of starvation by millions
Any dissent was squelched by immediate imprisonment or death
Compliance with authority became absolute
Meanwhile some of Stalinos plans were working
Education moved rapidly forward
Industry in large cities grew at unprecedented rate
Health care, nursery schools, emanciapation of women reached new levels
The country was moving out of feudalism but terror stalked the land.
In late 300s Hitler was conquering one country after another
Stalin tried to get England and U.S. to sign a mutual support pact.
They chose not to get involved
1939 Stalin signed a non-aggression pact with Hitler with agreement to
provide him with raw material.
1941 Hitler invaded USSR
Soviet Union totally unprepared
Stalin unable to cope. country no leadership in belinning
Nazios moved quickly through USSR and established thousands of
extermination camps.
Germans burned, looted, and murdered inhabitants in every village they came to
Four years later, 2/3 of country lay in ruins,
Industry, hospitals. libraries, factories, museums,
20,000,000 dead (we lost less than 500,000)
25,000,000 homeless
13
schools and housing
~ .
After pushing the Germans off their soil
they swept through the Eastern European countries who had fought with Hitler
and met the Americans at the Elbe River.
Through treaties and force
They have maintained control of the ''buffer states" except for Finland
and Austria ever since. The West saw this as "aggression" and the
Soviets saw i t as protection of their borders - plus spoils of their
victory over those who invaded their land.
1945 (41 years ago ) emaciated people began rebuilding their scorched country.
European specialists surveyed the devastation and estimated it would take 100 years
to rebuild the USSR
The "Cold War" began almost illllDediately.
Stalin was more paranoid than ever and still brutal
Churchill and Roosevelt didnGt trust Stalin quite naturally
The wounded Soviet Union closed off
The "Iron Curtain" was erected
McCarthy came into American prominence with anti-Soviet campaign
The East and West began knee-jerk reactions of fear and hostility
enemy imaging became encreuched.
WIIA1' DOES mrs HAVE to DO WID 'DIE SOVIET PEOPLE YOO WD.L 1IDT1
* Average people you meet have histories that will shock you
... was ... 30 years old during the war
.. was . . . 20 years old" ""
.. . was .... 10 years old" ""
. . . was . . born during the war
..... was .... born 10 years later into rubble
. have mothers, fathers, and grandparents who
relate the tragedy of their experience
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
,...
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
70 year old you meet
60 " " " "
50
40
30
20
every
* These people still live with the memory of hunger, fear, and burning homes
* It affects their entire world view. They have been molded and shaped by
World War II (the Great Patriot i c War. to them)
* Peace is an urgent, pressing issue everywhere you go in the USSR.
They have a great fascination with and admiration for Americans.
They want to be accepted and acknowledged by us
We are their models in many areas - they want to cut their hair like us,
wear makeup like we do, and dance to our music, etc.
Pozner said "If there is any people on the face of the earth that Soviets want
to be friends with, it is Americans - there is a very strong feeling among them
for this."
1'HEIROS IS A VERY DIFFEllEB'I' WOBLD FHDM OURS
*** Isolated from rest of world for centuries
Much less developed
Very structured. and planned
Tight control until very recently
Many young men in uniform in cities
Less color than the West
Classical education is now available for everyone
consumer technology is 40 years behind the West
Soviets are: Private and quiet in public places
passionate in private
cool until personal contact is made
very helpful
proud of their country
very patient
have low level of expectancy
grateful for simple things
honest - no guile - no arrogance
very loyal friends
straight to the point
opposed to going dutch - the host pays for everything
very generous with time and money
appreciate people who are punctual
love to give little gifts - for no special occasion
international in focus
child centered
unconsciously collective
great readers (even Western authors)
trustworthy
sincere
self monitoring - and they monitor each other
suffer from inferiority complex to rest of world
are hungry for acknowledgement from the outside world
END OF HISTORICAL SWEEP .......................................... .......
1S
20 Q's
&
A's
WHAT ABOUT THE RUSSIANS-
AND NUCLEAR WAR?
1. Hasn't Russia always been expansionist in its foreign policy, going back to
tsarist times?
Russian expansion early in the tsarist era was largely indistinguishable from the
outward expansion toward better agricultural lands, and the need to protect these
settlements. Later, Russia followed the colonial expansion of most Western Euro-
pean countries, although its pattern--expansion into unclaimed or weakly-held adja-
cent lands--was more similar to the American pattern, than, say, the British global
empire-building effort.
2. Did the Bolsheviks have the support of the Russian people when they overthrew
the tsar in the Revolution of 1917?
To begin, the Bolsheviks did not overthrow the tsar. The tsar was forced to abdi-
cate in the face of massive opposition to continuance of Russian participation in
World War I and to his reign. Seven months later, the Bolsheviks overthrew the
Provisional government which had been established. At that time, they had wide-
spread support in the cities, but not in the countryside. Even in the cities,
their support was by no means the majority. .
3 ~ Are the Russians trying to lead a worldwide revolution to establish communist
regimes?
For a brief period after the Revolution, Lenin organized the Comintern for this
purpose. It was a complete failure. While the Soviet Union has remained friendly
to revolutionary regimes once they are formed, they have focused their primary
energies and resources on building their own country--"socialism in one country"
as Stalin called it--as a precondition for worldwide revolution. Where they have
sought to use military and economic aid to assist revolutionary regimes in the
Third World in recent years, their efforts have brought them only meager success.
4. What started the cold war between the Soviet Union and the West? After all,
weren't we allies with the Soviet Union against Nazi Germany in World War II?
First of all, the Grand Alliance of World War II--the U.S., Britain, and the Soviet
Union--had considerable internal strain. To be allies against a common enemy
doesn 't imply permanent friendship. The origins of the cold war are many. Cer-
tainly the Soviet occupation of Eastern Europe played a key role in the Western
perspective. The Soviets, in turn, emphasize the fact that the West, and espe-
cially the U.S., "ringed" their country with air bases on which were based bombers
capable of reaching the Soviet Union, bombers which eventually carried atomic
bombs. This catalyzed a long-standing paranoia about security in Stalin and other
Russian leaders.
16
5. Why are Russians so paranoid about their security?
Russia has been invaded repeatedly since the 13th century. They have also been
relatively isolated from the for centuries. giving them a distrust of foreign-
ers. During World War II, they lost 20 million people, about a tenth of their pop-
ulation. All these factors, together with the general hostility which the Western
democracies have maintained toward them since the Russian Revolution, contribute
to their paranoia.
6. Why do so many Russians revere Stalin when he was such a tyrant?
Stalin industrialized the country, led the fight against the Nazi invasion, and
made the Soviet Union a great . world power. He also helped create a cult about him-
self . The many people killed in the purges, the deaths from starvation after col-
lectivization, and the system of terror are remembered as well, but on balance,
Soviet citizens give Stalin credit for his achievements.
7. What are Russians really like?
To begin, only 52% of Soviet citizens are Russians. Another 20% are related Slavic
groups--Ukrainians and Belorussians. The traditional Russian national character
could be characterized as one with a considerable respect, if not desire for, au-
thority; distrust of fore igners; fiercely nationalistic and willing to make sacri-
fices for "Mother Russia"; and very private in their opinions. But it must be re-
membered that 'this is only a generalization. and only for 52% of the population.
8. What is everyday life like for Soviet citizens?
Life expectancy and literacy are about the same as in the U.S . The Soviet economy
is performing poorly, with many sought-after goods--apartments, good meat, high-
quality clothing shoes--in short supply. The privileged groups do have access
to special stores where these things sometimes can be purchas&d more easily. Pub-
lic services are cheaper and generally available in sufficient supply. Most women
work. Student life is not radically different from that in the U.S., although the
curriculum is more heavily science- and math-oriented and the program of study more
rigid.
9. The Soviet Union put up the first Sputnik. Are they still ahead of us in
science?
They were never ahead of us in basic science. They have a good basic science capa-
bility, but the U.S. is better . In terms of applying scientific knowledge to
building factories, machines, and weapons, they do very well in military-related
areas, such as rockets and satellites , but are well behind us in general industrial
applications and particularly in some high-technology areas like computers. That
is why they want to purchase Western machinery and technology.
10. How bad are the country's economic problems?
The Soviet economy has stagnated. It is handicapped by a cumbersome central plan-
ning process and an enormous bureaucracy, and by the burden of defense expendi-
tures. it by no means is in such bad shape that it leaves the Soviet.
Union naked to economic measures taken by the U.S . in hopes of for.cing on the
Soviet leadership changes i n their domestic policies or their foreign and military
policies.
11. Will the Chinese and Russians ever get together again? After all, they're
both communist countries.
The conflict has ancient historical roots. Currently, they are in disagreement
over communist doctr ine, who will lead the socialist camp, and policy toward the
West. The best bet is that the Chinese will steer an independent course for some
time to come. .
17
11. Why did the Reagan Administration try to block the Siberian-West European nat-
ural gas pipel ine? Won 't that alienate our European allies?
The attempt to embargo the use of American high technology on the pipeline was
predicated on two beliefs: (1) that it would prevent the Russians from acquiring
much-needed hard currency, thereby enabling them to continue to devote large
amounts of their annual budget to military programs; and (2) it would make the
Europeans dangerously dependent on Soviet natural gas, and thus subject to interna-
tional blac kmail. There was also a desire to "punish" the Soviets for the ir ac-
tions in Poland. It did cause great strain in our relations with NATO allies,
strain which has only partly eased with the abandonment of the embargo effort.
12. Who rules Russia?
The Soviet Union is ruled by the Communist Party, which is superimposed on the
structure of government at all levels. The Party is ruled by the Politburo and
Secretariat for the most part. Within these bodies there is a collective leader-
ship, among which one individual, the Party Secretary, now Yuri Andropov, ;s the
most powerful figure. Sometimes, e.g., in Stalin's time, the rule of the Secretary
can be very powerful . .
13. All the news about dissidents and the KGB suggests there is little freedom
in Soviet society for the individual. Is this so?
The number of political dissidents in the Union is very sma11--on1y a hand-
ful of people. There is far less freedom there than in the U.S., less freedom to
move around the country (there is a system of internal passports and closed
cities), less freedom to criticize the government and party (suggestions for change
can be made, but only within 'est ab1i shed communication channels controlled by the
Party), less freedom of the press and assembly (the media are controlled by the
Party, and large demonstrations, when they occur, are orchestrated by the govern-
ment). Yet the society is largely free of the mass terror of Stalin's time:
Rather the system of internal control depends on propaganda, withholding privi-
leges and, of course, the coercive power of the KGB and other police organizations.
14. Why did detente fail?
Those who thought detente was a sham to begin with felt its failure was inevitable,
i.e., the Russians can't be trusted is their perspective. Those who felt detente
had promise point to the conflicting conceptions of detente each side held, the
problems that were neglected in establishing detente, and the interaction between
Soviet and U.S. frustration, .di sappoi nt ment s , and fears.
15. Why are the Russians spending so much on defense and building all these new
weapons? Are they trying to gain military superiority over us?
This is a question that only someone inside the Politburo can answer with certain-
ty. At a mlnlmum, the Soviets are determined to match the U.S. weapon for weapon.
They will never again accept the inferiority they had at the time of the Cuban mis-
sile crisis. They are aware that the U.S., with its greater lead in high technol-
ogy and larger industrial base, could probably win an all-out arms race, but they
also seem to realize that it would be foolish for them to stimulate such a race,
given the risks of nuclear war it would entail.
16. Do the Russians think they can win a war?
Soviet military doctrine emphasizes preparing to fight a nuclear war, just as ours
emphas izes building an effective deterrent. In each instance, the result has been
the same: both sides 'have enormous nuclear arsenals. But there is little reason
to believe they think they can "win" a nuclear war. Forty percent of their popula-
tion and a far greater percentage of their industrial base would be destroyed in
12
an all-out nuclear war. We have no reason to believe they are not forthcoming in
their frequent pronouncements that a nuclear war would be insanity.
17. But don't they have a large civil defense capability and an ABM system?
The Soviet civil defense capability, like that recently developed in the U.S., is
largely on paper. They do have some protect ive facilities for the political lead-
ership, but not for their industry or the population at large. The Soviet ABM sys-
tem is only around Moscow, and is not thought to be in any way capable of inter-
cepting incoming missiles.
18. Look at the huge Soviet defense build-up. Doesn't that violate the provisions
of previous arms control treaties?
We can be certain that the Soviets will continue to build weapons to at least equal
the strategic capability of the U.S. As ~ o r the treaties, of the eight distinctive
nuclear weapons-related treaties signed by the U.S. and the Soviet Union, there
has not been a single instance of violation recorded against either side.
1 9 ~ Why is verification such a problem? Is it because we think the Soviets plan
to cheat?
The verification problem has its roots in a number of factors, including: (1) not
a single weapons system was designed with an eye to the verification problem;
(2) the extraordinary differences between the forces on the two sides, (3) differ-
ence in verification assets between the two countries; and (4) the question of what
constitutes lI adequat e verification." But at bottom, -the real problem is neither
side trusts the other.
20. What kind of a person is Yuri Andropov and why did he, among all the other
contenders, get Brezhnev's job?
We do not have a clear picture of Yuri Andropov. He is described as both liberal
in some of his views and a hard-liner in others. His background and experience
are also mixed, having served as head of the KGB during a period of suppression
of dissent, but also having been a Central Committee expert on Eastern Europe.
He won the job on the basis of his broad range of experience and familiarity with
both foreign matters and domestic problems, and because he had the support of
powerful members of the Politburo and the Soviet military.
"20 Q's AND A's ABOUT THE SOVIET UNION" was prepared by the author of What about
the Russians--and Nuclear War?, Dr. Earl A. Molander, Executive Director aT rAE
GRoUND ZERO pAIRING PRoJECT. Additional copies are available for 25/copy. Send
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19
20 THOUGHTS TO PONDER REGARDIBG US/USSR RINDSETS
David L. Ouinby
_ Each country seems to have an exaggerated fear of the other. The problem here is
that such exaggerated fears can trigger aggression and war.
2. Each country ag;:ers to be motivated in part by macho pride-best persorufied by
Ronald Reagan. When one is motivated by -nacho pride-, one wants one I s country to have an
image of being tough, p::rwerful, courageous, masculine. This kind of motivation has no
doubt been behind traditional efforts of empire-building and empire-keeping.
3. Anger and hatred are comnon in both countries. These are the flip side of fear. "li m
angry as hell at you for naking me fearful" may be the unstDken message.
4. One can see evidence of a diabolical in both countries. This is seen
in the prevalent black-or-white kind of dichotanous thinking: "We I re the Good Guys and
theyI re the Bad Guys can be a silent assumption at work in both nations. The "Good Guys"
ccmponent; here may be a foen of fantasy or wishful thinking. The "Bad Guys- part
heightens that effect, of course, even though it is oversimplifed. What's more, we
undoubtedly project sane of our bad traits onto the enemy, unconsciously.
5. 5anewhat related, each country seems to mnwn a JDOral self-image: "We are so
fine and upstanding a people, we could never start a war! II This is virtually a universal
kind of stance.
6. There is the CODIOOn Illusion, the assumption that other (neutral) countries
are more friendly to us (less hostile) than they really are. Thus when the n, S. went
into Grenada, we were shocked that some of our friends didn I t -understand- this. The
Russians had similar experiences in Afghanistan.
7. There is the phenanenon of overconfidence. This is frequently seen in the military.
'ut it I S an interesting observation that no large country that started a major war in the
20th century has finished t::he winner. 01eck it out. 8. The Fberianenon of worst-case
thinking. This is sometimes found in the military as well. It assumes the enemy is
bet7.er prepared than we are. The impact of -Worst-case thinking on the aDDS race should
be ::-parent .
9. 1he problem of overlapping territorial self-images. 5anetimes there is a place, a
zone of overlap, where one nationI s territorial self-picture coincides with another
nationI s self-picture. This is said to be historically a CClI'IIOOn cause of war. It I s hard
to imnediately refer to an illustration of this in the case of Russia and America, except
perbaps syntx>lically. But there are certainly many places in the world where it involves
other countries and in which two supetp::lWers could becane artlroiled.
10. The big problem of selective inattention: the tendency to plt certain things out
of one I s mind. In this DeChanism, if sanething we are doing is bugging the
refuse to think about it. Ronald Reagan seems fixated on -strategic equality or
-strategic superiority and he seems unable or unwilling to give other J:X)ssibilities
attention. Be represses alternatives.
11. The problem of preexisting beliefs influenciD9 present perception. In other
words, if the Russians propose saoething nE!'tli or pranising, our officials may automatically
see it in light of sauething out of the past. Often proposals, fran either side, are
quickly dismissed with a -That I s just rhetoric. There are endless examples of this.
12. Persistence of beliefs. Bumanity has not really fathaned the full
implications of living in a nuclear age1 this is particularly true of leaders in the
Announcements are made, and actions are taken, as though the world was
living back in the 1930s1 Psychic nUlIiJing-, in effect, has been with mst of us
1945.
13 The insidious problem of blurred distinctions and the spread of attribution.
This refers to the inabilit:'j or unwillingness to separate a personI s mind and actions. In
other words, if the o. S. administration has decided that the present Premier of Russia is
20
llbad", then automatically all of his ideas and actions are seen as llbad
ll
It's an
inability to distinguish the two aspeces, That is, the attributed llbadnesS spreads
unchecked. In this conrectaon, leaders, and sometimes the populace at large, make two
unwarranted assumptions. Firstly, they assume that llbad people do "bad things
Secondly, they asstm! if an action is bad it must autanatically have been done by a -bad
person" These unwarr.anted assumptions show up repeatedly in Ronald Reagan's statE!llE!!'lts
and speeches. Whether Mr. Reagan is actually ignorant of the distinction, or whether he
deliberately uses this mechanism to swa:j t=eOple is a separate issue. To give him the
benefit of the doubt, I personally think he is ignorant rather than malicious.
14. The .ecbanisa of injured-innocence. Since each a)untry ethoocentrically believes
that it is naturally innocent of any aggressive intents, it infers that any major aIming
by the opp::lser ooviously has an aggressive intent. Another a)untry a)uld not have arrt
real fear of us, thinks each nation. The injured-innocence mechanism seems closely
related to 15.
15. The 1Xlenanenon of 1D1iversalization. Most people are tempted to broadly
universalize their perceptions and even their ccmplete 'reality world'. This means that
we assume that the Wa:j we see things is entirely objective, factual, right. Others ought
to be able to see it the same wa:j, therefore.
16. ene' finds, in both the u, S. and the Soviet Onion, a credulous acceptance of
propaganda. Many AIDer ieans seem to believe that Russians are smothered by a blanket of
propaganda put out by their leaders in iron-clad fashion. Many Russians seem to believe
that Americans are s:mcthered by a blanket of capitalistic/industrial propaganda and cannot
see things as they are. But all propaganda seems to have limited effectiveness.
17. There is the folly of the of a trend. When the Soviets went into
Afghanistan, sane predicted that this was simply the first stage of a budding
Bitlerite-typ! conquest that would soon engulf other territories in the Mid-East. Looking
at defense expenditures, America is quickly gaining on the SOviets, that is, increasing
strategic superiority. In turn, the Soviets may be tempted to this new
trend and becane even more fearful.
18. Both a)untries have a deep belief of pending diabolical, cold-blooded aggression
by -the Historically each aI'IIIY believes it is innocent and has been attacked by
diabolical enemies. What reason is there to think the sitiJation is different in 1984 than
it has been in the past?
19. There is a eatm:ln belief in the sut:etp)Wers of peace through Duclear parity. This
is sanetimes called -balance. This is dangerous thinking. To make a crude analogy: two
little boys are in a closed roan with gasoline flooding the roan up to their knees. cne
little boy has six matches and the other little boy has twelve matches. Does it matter
which little boy is which? Would you rest any easier if each little boy had six matches,
or two dozen each, or two each? This analogy has a certain aQ;)ropriateness, except, of
course, that the planet is much larger, and more valuable, than a roem. But in. many
cases, sad to sa:j, the mentality of the leaders in all countries does not seen too.
different fran the two little boys. What kind of can there be in a volatile
situation like today's?
20. There is the pathology in both countries of the bliDd spot. This refers to the
inability to see the opposers' or the onlookers' perceptions of one's own nation. Each
country is iIrtledded in its own circle of misconceptions, myths, biases, miSp!rceptions,
rigid thinking, stereotypes, projective behaviors, rationalizations, and so on.
This has been excerpted fran an article by David L. Quinby, Youngstown State University,
titied 110. S. -Soviet Interlock Sociodynes, in CBAICB: Journal of the Synergistic
Society. Quinby, in turn, said he drew heavily lIpJn Fearful Warriors by Raltil K.
White, New York: The Free Press, 1984.
2.1
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION ON THE SOVIET UNION
What wor ks in the Soviet Union?
Child care and education. They have excellent protective laws for mothers
and ch ildren. All children get a classical education, no matter where they
live, and they learn languages from the earliest grades. Also, the .Me t r o ,
their subway system, is safe clean and efficient. Cultural activit ies,
concerts, plays, and ballets are accessible to everyone at low cost.
What doesn 't work in the Soviet Union?
The people live in very small, standardi:ed apartments, as jUdged by our
standards. Private homes are very rare. Few people have private cars. There
are shortages of consumer goods. Everyone has something; no one has alot.
Thelr treatment of political dissidents is distressing, and the fact that
Soviets are unable to travel outside their borders is unfortunata. Of course,
there are except ions, but these are relatively few when compared to a
population of almost 280 million.
Gene Knudsen-Hoffman of the U.S.-U.S.S.R. Reconciliation Program in Santa
Barbara,CA perhaps sums it up best:
"What did I find? I found fear of the nuclear weapons that are poised and
targeted at them, deep love of children, pride in their vast nation and in
cities built from the rubble of war, pride in their accomplishments, deep
spirituality in some, emphasis on values different from ours, a history
vastly different from ours, and again, fear of the West's hatred for them.
I found there are many things about the Soviet Union that I question,
doubt, and fear. Their are poised and targeted at us. They are not a
"peace" nation, any more than we are. They are an anti-war nation, and there
is a difference. They have a huge nuclear war arsenal, just like ours. They
play power politics, practice espionage, seek to keep countries en their
borders "friendly" thl""ough military occupation, are tar-rified of strange
. p l a ne s flying over their territory, and function from fear just like us."
87
"- -..... .
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SHOW and TELL
71 54 56 th AVE PH X AZl1.no I
22.
Cultural norms, and other things to think about when visiting the
Soviet Union, ftOen evaluating "their" behavior and considering
the effects of "our" behavior upon the natives
Recall the last time you saw a group of Japanese tour ists -- all of them wearing
ten-gallon cowboy hats, taking pictures of one another at a monument. Or, recall the
last time you were standing in a supermarket line behind some foreigners barel y
spoke English, who fumbled through their paper money and stared in awe at the odd
collection of coins in their hands.
Well, soon the tables will be turned, and you shall be the "foreigners" -- cowering
in groups (we hope. not l ) , trying to "capture" the essence of a strange country while
fearful of venturing out into that country (we hope not!).
The purpose of this note is to give you some things to think about before our visit
-- things which may help to make your visit rewarding and educational.
Each country, of course, has its norms of behavior; so, when a visitor evaluates the
behavior of the natives in terms of his or her own norms, the visitor can make some
inappropr.iate conclus ions. The following suggestions and observations may, we hope,
help you make more appropriate conclusions.
1. "Russians are rude: they push a lot." Pushing and shoving are the national
pasttime in the Soviet Union. Where an for instance, perceives an orderly
line, a Russian will perceive infinite open spaces and endless opportunities to
practice jostling. Fifty Russians will comfortably occupy a space which five
Americans comfortably occupy.
Maybe scarcity of goods has something to do with all this pushing and shoving.
Have you seen the newsclips of people in this country shopping for "Cabbage Patch"
dolls? Yet, Russians push and shove even when they don't have to (Le., on subways,
in busses). Maybe it I s just the desire for physical contact, or the love of
competitiveness, but make sure you take time out to marvel at crowd behavior patterns
in the Soviet Union. Try to get a vantage point (like on a balcony in GUM department
store) and watch how smooth and orderly the process actually is. Note that shoving
or pushing with arms and feet are almost always inappropriate. Jostle with your
torso, take small steps, and enjoy the flow of humanity.
2. Special tips re public transportation: take public transportation whenever
possible (good advice when visiting any country). Show your hotel card to any
native, and chances are he or she will be very helpful in getting you back to your
hotel. Note: in Moscow, a surprisingly large number of people are visitors from
other parts of the Soviet Union and are as lost as you are in the big city -- if not
more.
On the long escalators going down and coming up from the subways, slower traffic
keeps to the right. The left side is the passing lane, reserved for Olympic
sprinters and long-legged Estonians in a big hurry.
Busses, trolleybusses and streetcars: enter from the rear door; leave through
the front door. The bus or streetcar will undoubtedly be jammed. Try to gauge your
position on the vehicle in proportion to the number of stops you think you're going
to go. If you1re too close to the front door you may easily be pushed off before
your intended spot (what a great chance to explore the city!); if you I re too far back
from the door you may not get to the front in time to get out. You violate the rules
23
of the game if you start to cry, or if you hang on for dear life to the sleeve of the
bus driver (he or she will not appreciate this undue interference with the "existing
job" of maneuvering through the city traffic).
Getting on and getting off the busses, streetcars and trolleys is only half the
fun. You also have to pay. It's done on the "honor system." There's usually one
box towards the rear of the vehicle into which passengers put their coins, and from
which they pull a little ticket. This honor system is supplemented by transit
workers who occasionally board and check passengers for their tickets. Of course,
the box will be jammed with people, so have your change ready beforehand. If you
can 't reach (or even see) the coin box, simply pass your coins up the box.
Eventually you'll receive back your ticket and your change (if needed). Don't stand
in front of that box unless you want to play cashier and ticket dispenser to 150
natives.
Note: when you're on any public transportation vehicle and a native politely
mumbles a question, chances are he's asking if you're intending to get off at the
next stop; then he or she will gauge his own position accordingly. In this context,
confidently saying "da" if you intend to exit, or conf idently saying "nyet" if you
don't intend to exit, would seem a safe bet. We assume no liability if any other
question was passed.
3. On the street:.- vehicles in the Soviet Union have the right of way!! Don't ever
jaywalk. Most busy streets will have pedestrian underpases; look for them. A
pedestrian crossing the street on a "walk" light becomes fair game for cars turning
right and left.
4. Shopping: each group member is required to purchase one item in a real Russian
store (not a store reserved for foreigners and their foreign currency.) Find the
item you want. Try to get the attention of a salesclerk in this non-capitalistic
country. Point to the item you want. The clerk will give you a receipt, and may
even point you in the general direction of the cashier. Stand in the cashier line.
Pay. Push through the crowd back to your desired item. Give the clerk the receipt
which the cashier gave you. Relish the fact that you have actually managed to buy
something in a Soviet store.
Note: most stores don't provide wrapping paper or bags. Bring your own. You
will remember all this when you see natives fighting through the crowds with large
newspaper funnels holding cookies, or fighting their way onto the subway with New
Years tree in hand. Most natives (and most astute visitors) carry around little net
bags call ed "avoska' s" or "maybe bags." If you maybe see something you want to buy,
you'll have a bag for carrying it.
5. "Russians are because they never smile." Americans smile more than any
other people, it seems. We have been accused of walking around with automatic smiles
on our faces, even when that smile clearly belies the real attitude. Well, Russians
don't smile as much. It has been said that in Russia, a smile is a prelude to a
laugh. Look instead for eye expressions and body language to indicate mood and
attitude.
6. "Russians are rude because they stare so much." They do stare. Russians stare
especially long at foreigners. Remember that most of them do not travel to the West;
so, during their long stares at you, they will be evaluating your facial expressins,
body language, your hair style, dental work, eyeglasses, clothes, boots, etc. etc.
Don't take offense; don't deprive them of this single opportunity to observe "the
West.
1I
24
When making conclusions about clothes styles, etc., you might want to consider
the following: the objective of a planned , socialist economy is to estimate (and
provide) how many shirts , coats, etc. each good citizen will require in X years. In
a capitalist economy, style may be a prime motivator in that it encourages consumers
to buy things they don't "need" -- except; that the latest demands of fashion dictate
that last year's dress be replaced by this year's model. So, style and fashion are,
in certain respects, inimical to the planned economy. But watch how style conscious
Soviet citizens are anyway, and how their strapped economy tries to accommodate them.
7. You "ill want to bring little sourvn.lr-s and gifts. We will have one Intourist
guide ."no follows us around during our visit. We will have guides staying with us in
each city, as well as guides taking us on special tours and visits. We will also
have "structured" meetings with Soviet citizens. All of these represent occasions
for presenting small gifts. And many times during the trip natives will present you
with li-ttle mementos. The object in glvWg a small souvenir is neither to over she lm
with generosity nor to offend. Good luck.
S. Generally, Soviet citizens don't like having their pictures taken without
permission. Why? Some say it is related to the Eastern idea that a photograph
steals the soul. Others suggest that Soviet citizens are ashamed of their clothes
and surroundings. Sill others suggest that Russians are not spontaneous people and,
therefore dislike spontaneous pictures and prefer posed pictures. At any rate,
remember all this when you are taking pictures. Best to ask first. You may see an
excellent potential shot of . a wonderful lady selling fruit in a kiosk. If you ask to
take her picture, you may have to wait forty-five minutes as she brushes her hair,
adjust her clothes and puts on fresh makeup, and then starts turning all the apples
and oranges to show off their best sides. You may simply take a fast picture and
run, but you will have paid for it by producing some bad feelings. .
Each group member Is required to at least once walk around a city without having
the ubiqui tous camera hanging fran the neck. See if you are treated any differently.
Do Hot take pictures of anyone in a military uniform. Do Not take pictures of
anything which may be of "military significance;" that definition can include
airports, bridges, ships, etc. Never take a picture fran an airplane window or from
a train window -- wi thout first asking. The' way to ask to take a picture is "Hczhnc
snimat?" The answer will be "dan or "nyet ,"
Some conclusions:
We would consider your experiences in the USSR incomplete if you did not break off
from the group occasionally and mingle with the natives. Watch for interesting
things , differences in norms. You will notice that when a man and woman walk
together , the man carr ies the woman's purse. Young women tend to talk together
arm-in-arm, touching each other in ways that in this country would be inappropriate.
You may even see macho male Soviet soldiers holding hands in museums. You will see
young men and women kissing or hugging in public; they usually walk arm-in-arm
(holding hands is considered childlike). Notice also how young children are pampered
and spoiled beyond belief. Watch fat' all the special seating and other favors for
disabled war veterans. Notice the relative scarcity of older men.
Z5
COHHUNICATION WITH SOVIETS
Communication with SovietR at official unofficial levels is compl icated
by a number of factors that are little understood by either side.
Americans assume that Soviets think and verbalize as Americans do!
make the same assumption the other way around! These assumptions
great deal of difficulty when conversation goes beyond chic-chat.
For starters:
Soviets
account for a
*** In a rather way, Soviet thinking is molded by the World War II
experience. Their deprivation, loss, and suffering has produced a
mindset that colors their perception of everything. Even if they are
teenagers, they have been reared from the cradle with stories of the
heroism and terrorism of the "Great Patriotic War". Americans have had
no such experience and frequently feel Soviets should "turn loose of the
past." Whether they should or sbcu Idn'tt is immaterial, they havenOt - and
this has to be factored into any serious conversation with them.
*** There is an inferiority/superiority syndrome in the Soviets relative
to Americans. They, on the one hand, really believe that Americans
have the beautiful life, that our is all glitter and lights, that
we have unlimited consumer goods and freedom - we are like the rich
kids that live up on the hill. Hard times have never touched us - and
our casual "goodtime Charlie" approach to life is enviab l e and
intriguing. They have admired us from afar, given thanks to us when
we sent food, clothing and money to them during the war, and always
have used us as their model. They want to dress like us, cut their
hair like us, and dance to our music. They read our literature and
stand in line to see our movies.
This is the side that produces the inferiority - it seems they always
come off a little shabby in comparison with us (that is if we are
comparing the materialistic side of our two societies). So anytime we
are in communication, this invisible (and mostly subconscious) aspect will
be a dynamic in the conversation.
The superiority side of the equation around the issue of values
with Soviets feeling that they have superior education for their youth,
a more widely read populace, a more cultured people, and 8 better system
of taking care of health and genp.ral welfare. They see our society
as chaotic and pretty frightening. They also feel that they have a
strong edge on disarmament proposals and are more serious about
creating a nuclear-free future.
This inferiority/superiority overlay plays in and out of most interactions
between Americans and Soviets.
There are many such words which tend to confuse communication.
Therefore. if you hear a word that sounds out of context to you.
be sure to ask your Soviet counterpart exactly what s/he means by the
word.
*** Soviets are "broad-context" communicators - Americans are "specific-context"
communicators. Soviets tend to see an issue within the entire context.
be it history. culture. all extenuating factors - where the individual
issue may look insignificant by contrast. We. on the other hand.
zero in on individual (true to our American tradition) and
dissect them. independent of a larger framework. It doesnDt take
much reflection to see how this difference creates' substantial
disagreements at many levels of communication.
An instance - Soviets look at Eastern block countries from their
perspective of having been invaded through them for centuries, having
fought against their troops in WWII, and conclude that these buffer
countries were and are spoils of the defeat and insurance that they
wonDt be invaded again. We look at Hungary or Poland and see the
fist of an outside power imposed on an otherwise free people and quite
naturally get outraged about it.
*** Disarmanent issues bring up the most difficult between
Soviets and Americans.
The Soviets are frightened of war beyond our imagination. They have
lived it first hand. They know about the sound of enemy planes
overhead. their own homes going up in fire, death by freezing, feeding
their children rats, pets. and eventually living on boiled pieces of
leather and paste off of wallpaper. War is not history it is a part
of their own memory.
They make a pretty good case for having been only followers in the
arms race - and doing that out of fear of "anti-communist" elements
in the West who wanted bring the Soviet system down.
They point to the instances where the West initiated the next round
of weapons. It is fruitless to engage in discussion with them
without a clear knowledge of the facts - because they have their facts
together - and on several occasions it has been embarrassing for
Americans who went into the "ring" unprepared.
They show with considerable pride the details of the "unilateral
moratoriam" that lasted over a year and half, the initiatives of
Gorbachev in Iceland, and new commitments to verifiability of
various aspects of weaponry and troop movemets .
This is not an easy issue to converse with Soviets - particularly
when so many of our Nobel Laureate scientists agree with their
basic posture. For me, it seems best to give our own personal
position and listen to theirs - without arguments. without
challanging. We donDt have a very strong leg to stand on here - and
it quickly reduces the communication to an "US/THEM" standoff that
to date has never been productive. So one should proceed at their
own risk.
27
*** In general Soviets are inculturated not to "hang out their dirty
.l i nen" - even with each other. (It is akin to the upright family that
doesnOt discuss Uncle Joeos alcoholism or grandmotheros youthful
indisgressions).
Americans, on the other hand, frequently feel
discuss the most revealing personal details.
openness and bonding, we feel "getting it out
best policy.
liberated when they can
In the name of honesty,
in the open" is the
Problem: Americans admit to all their national weakness'es; and
Soviets sit there agreeing with them - and refuse to talk about
their own shortcomings.
Next scenario: Americans get frustrated and angry because Soviets
arenOt communicating with the candor. Americans begin to feel they have
put their countryOs weakness on line and feel like they have been
traitors. If the Soviets had done the same thing it would have been okay.
Next scenario: Members of American group get angry with
each other because one has been more "anti-American" than another - when in
truth we communicated as we usually do - which is appropriate in our
country - but inappropriate with a group of Soviets - because of their
proclivity for silence regarding weak spots.
*** Soviets know what kind of press ' they get in Western count r i es, They
are portrayed as backward, cold, controlled Russian bears who are '
servants of the "State" and out to grab control of the world for
CommunLsm. They donOt see themselves this'way, and each American
audience becomes an opportunity for them to explain that they are not
what the world stereotype says they are. Since they donOt have much
possibility of traveling in large numbers, their only method of
setting their record straight is to collar Americans and give them
their side . If it can be seen for what it is - an attempt to show
us what we havenOt had much information about - it can be receive
as a part of our learning experience.
Frequently Americans turn a deaf ear at the first mention of their
view of their society-. We dismiss it all "as "party line" - instead
of taking it seriously as an attempt to feel okay about themselves
in front of Americans who they think have everything in the world.
*** Even though many Soviets are fluent in English, there are words that
we both use in common that have different shades of meanings.
Frequently this confusion hampers communication.
Exp. propoganda - Soviets use this word in a positive sense - .it means
information, e.g., "our medical propaganda."
Americans use the word in a negative sense to
describe a deceptive manner of writing.
clever ----- Soviets mean "very smart, exceptionally brilliant"
with no negative connotation.
Americans frequently mean smart but with a slick or
deceptive element to it.
2.8
WIIAX CAR WE ItAKE OF ALL THIS?
We cannot understand how they can live with the inability to leave their
country or move to any city they choose, the inability to dissent the State
policies, the extent ion of Soviet control into other countries, fighting a war
in Afghanistan. silencing and exiling famous contributors to their society,
alienating the Jews who want to emigrate, imposing Russian as offical language
in a world of 120 languages, labor camps. plus a string of abuses that have
occurred under previous leadership. In addition. how can they settle for small
apartments. few personal automobiles and no possibility of becoming wealthy.
On the other hand. they cannot understand how we can live with crime in the
streets, bag ladies, unemployment. gays. pornography, child molestation.,
teenage gang brutality. native American abuses. inequities with the black
population, extension of our control into Central and South American countries,
the military-industrial complex. plus a host of CIA abuses throughout the world.
We have different maladies in our two societies - and each society. no doubt,
sees their own as fairly benign (and in the overall picture. acceptable). But we
both tend to damn the other for their particular problems.
BBGAIlDIBG QUESTIOBS
Do we ask questions sincerely for information?
Or do we ask questions for the purpose of confrontation?
Are our Soviet contacts knowledgeable about the issues that are in our minds?
Are ~ knowledgeable about the issues that are in our minds?
Are the Soviets we talk with responsible for their governmentOs actions?
Are we responsible for our governmentOs actions? .
Any question can be asked if it is couched i n a non-offensive manner and
doesnOt come from a base of wanting to corner the other person. For instance,
I ~ O U know. we hear many stories 3bout Afghanistan. and our friends are going to
ask what we found out when we get home. can you tell me what you know about
what is going on in that country?" Our words and tone of voice will tell
whether we are coming from a place of genuinely wanting to bear what they have
to say.
In a private home be particularly sensitive about third-degree questions. We
have lost home possibilities because Americans grilled Soviet citizens about
issues for which they didnOt have answers. One Soviet woman said, "DonOt bring
any more Americans here. We opened up our home for conversation and friendship aDd
felt we were being interrogated all evening."
WHY DOES COMMUNICATION .BREAK DOWN BETWEEN AMERICANS AND SOVIETS EVEN
WHEN BOTH SIDES SINCERELY DESIRE TO UNDERSTAND EACH OTHER?
In an attempt to get behind the problem of conflictual communication,
Americans and Soviets were interviewed. These interviews plus personal
observation of many encounters between A/S citizens, leads to some
conclusions that may be helpful to those genuinely desiring to get
around the r-oadul ocks ;
Soviet citizens complaints about Americans
1) You are totally insensitive to the history of our nation and our people.
2) Americans want to change us - we want to be accepted where we are.
J) Americans are not well informed on history and ask questions that are
o hard to answer-:wi thout a history lesson.
4) You have no concept of the Socialist vision or dream..
5) You are not aware of the many distinctions in our society and see us
as a monolithic society.
6) YVu ridicule our shortages without understanding the reasons for them.
7) Your country bears deep and heavy grudges against us - as evidenced by
the new missiles six minutes away from our .capital.
8) It is difficult to break through your prejudices - you are convinced
you are right.
9) You have a superficial knowledge of international affairs.
American citizens comnlaints about Soviets
1)
2)
J)
4)
5)
6)
7)
Soviets don't listen to us. They address us like a class of
six-year-olds.
Soviets never ask questions ~ f us - unless they are designed to get
admissions that our country ~ s wrong.
Y
9u
are not interested in us --you think you know all about American
l ~ f e ,- and you have no interest in additional information from us.
Everyone in official meetings says the same thing - like a broken record
You don't realize we Americans have very different mentalities regarding
our governments policy.
You won't become personal with us - always there is official stiffness.
You are belligerent and confrontational in official meetings ~ even
.\0 - _\0. \"0 ... o"'e ; "" good''';l1
"".".,-..c.. . .- '" .. I' ... -.
60
GIITS
There is little tipping in the USSR. Previously it was frowned upon, but I
have noticed official people tipping coat-check men and vomen lately, but
it is always a modest amount.
People you meet in schools or apartments will want to give you a memento.
Even people in the Metros occasionally have small pins, etc., to give away.
They are a giving society compared to the West. It is not considered
patronizing to give small "thank you" items - usually we feel rather
uncomfortable if we donOt have something to give after visiting in an
apartment.
There is a certain etiquette about g1v1ng gifts in the USSR. There is NEVER a
show made of it - quite the contrary - select an off moment in the kitchen or
hall when others are not around and give in a quiet and loving manner. Officious
giving has been embarrassing in the past. I have watched Soviets pass gifts in
a personal way - and it is charming and thoughtful. .
Some "gift" suggestions that are easy to carry: bookmarks, postcards of your
city or unique parts of your State, Childrenos art work, classic American
books, (paperbacks are fine), good used books, posters, nail polish, perfume
samples, lipsticks, ribbons and barrettes, handkerchiefs, scarves,
costume jewelry, and handwork of any sort. Soviet women like to wear scarves
and colored hosiery.
Former travelers have also taken small coloring books, crayons, yoyo s,
frisbees, and miniature cars and trucks for children. Childrenos books are
favorites. The way to a Russianos heart is through his/ber children.
You need not spend a lot of money on these mementos. Look in your drawers
for jewelry, scarves, etc., that were gifts and bavenOt been used. Department
stores are glad to give samples - and some have even donated costume jewelry,
belts, etc. when told that the items were going to Russia.
We want to avoid
gracious guests.
them in a fairly
styles.
looking like the rich cousins coming to visit - and still be
If you are taking pictures of your family, please photograph
neutral background that wonOt accentuate the difference in life
31
Some Doos and Don ts .... -..
Some young people are on the street looking for you - a ready source of '
western consumer goods. They are bold and entreupreneural - something like
pesky mesquitoes. Their English is fairly good and tbeir business is black
market. They want blue jeans, Hike shoes, or anything that is Americana.
They also want to buy dollars for more than the legal exchange. Talk with
them, but DO NOT DEAL WITH THEM. It is illegal and more than one American
has been picked up by the KGB for trading with these kids. A number of times
when I have been stopped by them, I have replied "IOd like to talk with you
but I wont buy or sell. Several times good conversations have ensued - one
lasted for an entire evening.
DAVID ufJ\T/\
A ( ; I ~
"5tG!::K.
j
'1.LLIN'15
o
J
"'0
SHOW and TELL
mil. . PQESltElVT
QjNT
HA
Cameras are fine but looking like a typical Westerner on vacation with all
sorts of equipment dangling frgm the neck will no doubt get in your way with
people. A small out-of-sight camera is better. Photographs of railway
stations and airports are forbidden. Otherwise you can take pictures of
anything. Camera etiquitte is expected. If you are taking a close range
photo of someone, ask their permission. They will understand if you just
point to them and to your camera. Usually they are glad to comply; ONe last
note - Soviet citizens donOt like pictures taken. of subjects that would
embarrass _their country - such as people standing in lines or old houses in
poor repair.
A Polaroid camera is worth its weight in gold if you are prepared to leave the
pictures in the USSR. Truly wonderful experiences with people have occurred
when we took their childos picture and gave it to them.
Wear non-descript plain clothing for best results with Soviet people. It
attracts less attention in a country where consumer goods have been hard to
come by. Also you will be bothered less by the blackmarket kids.
32
PRECADTIORS
Blackmarket people will introduce themselves in p.very city. They are
charming, speak excellent English and are worth getting to know. Enjoy
conversations with them but DO ROT SELL THEH ARYTHIRGI DO ROT sell your
clothing as they love jeans, T shirts and running shoes, etc. DO
ROT sell American dollars on the streets. (Exchange your money Q.!l.!:l. .in an
authorized bank , hotel or a i r po r t v) Our selling things to the Soviets is
against the law and foreigners are subject to jail confinement. Remember we
are guests in the USSR and must abide by their laws.
DO ROT purchase antique or classical period art (unless they are purchased at
a special foreigners' store), Do not purchase antiques or books published
before 1945 as a special permit is required to get these things out of the
country and it takes several weeks.

SO WiLL-
YDV
SHOW and TELL
Please DO HOT bring" Playboy, Cosmopolitan or similar publications. The
Soviets consider them po rnog r aphy, Do not bring any political books which
mak e s their country look bad. You may bring your own Bible or spiritual
matPr ial, but several cop ies of anyone item looks suspicious and t hey may be
taken away from you at Customs. Books or publications in Russian will be
very carefully reviewed.
Do not take a lot of identical prerecorded cassette tapes. The Soviets are
very suspect of this. (Blank cassette tapes do Dot create any problems.)
Do not take any list of Russian names and addresses. They may be taken away
at Customs and not
33
9:JoIE BASIC READnGS
OJerall Introduction (specially rea:mnended - in particular if yoJ lOl't have
nuch time to read other titles as listed below)
Elizabeth Pa'>d, F!O'l THE YARJSIAVSKY STATION: RUSSIA PEICEIVED. New York:
Universe Eboks, 1981. ("'I'he best s:in31e pop.11ariZEd velure flCM
available exp1ain:in3 the !'oviet people, their rulers, their systan,
their =try.' - The Christian science Mcnitorl
!\'r ight Miller, RUSSIANS AS PEOPLE. New York: l:Uttat , 1961.
Hedrick Snith, TIlE RUSSIANS. New York: C).ladrangle;'New York Times Book. CO., 1976.
!.i t era t1.: r e
D. S. Mirksy, 1\ HISTORY CE' RUSSIAN LITml\'IlJRE. Francis J. Whitfield, ed.
New York: Knopf, 1966.
G1cb Struve, RUSSIAN LlTERAWRE UNDER LENIN AND srALIN. Nonnan: University
of Oklahana Press, 1971 and later reprints.
Dening Brown, &7JIIT RUSSIlIN L.ITERA'ItlRE SThCE STALIN. New York: Canbridge
Uni versity Press. 1978.
l\rt
Tamara Tal.bot Rice , 1\ o::N::ISE HISTORY CE' RUSSIAN l\RI'. 2nd ed. New York:
Praeger, 1967.
flEliCJion
Nicholas Arseniev, RUSSWI PIF.I'Y. 1975. Order fran: St. Vladimir's 5aniJlary
Press, 575 SCarsdale Pd., Crest:l.o:xi, NY 10707
CUI bJre and History
&.1zanne Massie, lAND OF THE FIIlEBIR>: '!'HE BEN1rY CF OlD RUSSIA. New York:
Sir.cn and SCluster, 1980.
Janes H. Bill:in3ton, THE ICXJN AND THE AXE: AN INl'ERPREl'IVE HISTORY CE' RUSSIAN
CUL'lURE. New York: Knopf, 1968 . Very rich and dense. ('lb! almost
600 pages of tmet may be more than what SCJlle travellers may have
time to reed.)
Nicrolas V. RiasanovsJcy, 1\ RISTCRY OF RUSSIA. New York: Qlcford University Press,
Fwrth ed. , 1984. (Sane ranark as for title by Bill:in3tat.)
t.lmeander Solzhenitsyn, TIlE GJUIG AR:IlIPELlGJ. 1918-1956: AN E'CPElUMENl' IN
LITLRJIRY INIIESTIGl\TION. New York: Harper' Rcw, 1985. Abridged
by e:Iward. E. Erickson.
Politics am Institutions
Rebert Kaiser, RUSSIA: TIlE PEOPLE AND THE rowER. New York : I'ntheneun, 1976.
Mikhail Vos1ensJcy, l'OIEJlKLl\'l\lAA: TIlE RULnG CLI\SS IN TIle SOlIEI' 00100. Wndcn:
OJerseas PUb1icatioos, 1985.
Stanley Rethnan s George W. Bres1auer, &7JIET KlLITICS AND SOCIETY. St. Paul:
West PUblishing Co., 1978.
Frlucation
Urie Broofenbrenner, 'noD I'ORIDS OF CHnDlO:D: U. S. I'ID U. S. S. R.
Greenville, NC: TaJchstate Books, S & S PUblishing, Inc., 1972.
CU1111re and
Genevra Gerhardt, THE LIFE AND IMGJ.l\GE. New York: 1larca1%t,
Brace, Jovanovich, 1974. (Of interest and use to those IOho have
mastered - or at least begun to study - the Russian alphabet.)
The People
FlJgene silianaff (teKt) and Vlad.imir st:i.chc:w (protographs) , THE RUSSIANS.
Bostat: Little, BrCWl. 1981. (Contains 132 half, full, or dcub1e
pa,e Fhotogrilphs. A useful and reveal:in3 docunent.)
William Handel, SOVIET WOKEN. Palo Alto: Press. 1975
William Handel, SOVIEr. BUT NOT RUSSIAN: THE 'OTHER' PEOPLES OF TILE
SaVIEr UNION. Palo Alto: Press. 1985
GUIDES and HAHUALS
James Col c r olft . TilE SOVIET UNION TODAY: AN INTERPRETIVE GUIDE. Chicago:
Bulle tin of Atomic Scientists. 1983
Consider pick:in3 up the latest edition of THE AMERICAN TaJRIsr Ml\WAL FOR THE
U. S. S. R., canpiled by John E. Felber, Newu-k: Intematicnal
Intertrade Index: or serre similar volume.
SUggestions by
Guy de Mallac
Uhiversity of Calio:rnia, Irvine
AN OPPORTUNITY FOR 15 WALKERS
Orientation for the American Soviet Walk is scheduled to take
place from June 8-11. During this time, four major areas will be
covered: Soviet cUlture; aspects of cross-cultural experience;
arms control and disarmament; and wal king and camping. American
Field Service (AFS) is an international organization which has
been facilitating cross-cultural experiences for over 40 years,
and they will be lending their expert ise to our orientation. We
are extremely fortunate to have their input -- the orientation
will be a rich educational t ime for all of us.
AFS's p lans include a number of workshops for groups of 8- 12
wal kers, designed to promote personal discussion of the many
issues which arise as we prepare to go to the Soviet Union. They
have offered to walker. the opportunity to facilitate these group
workshops. AFS will provide a special training for 15-20 walkers
on the two days prior to full-group
If you have good l i s t e n i ng skills, and would li ke to
facilitate these small groups, you can get in touch with us at:
Philadelphia group
308 West Upsal St.
Philadelphia , PA 19119
(215) 438-0178
Include your name, address, phone number, and any pertinent
information about yourself and a brief description
of why you would like to be a group facilitator).
We look forward to hearing from you!