Understanding Power: A Conversation with Steven Kotkin

In this in-depth conversation, historian Steven Kotkin discusses the complexities of power, the nature of human ambition, and the historical context of authoritarian regimes, particularly focusing on Stalin and Putin. He delves into the psychological motivations behind the craving for power, the lessons history offers regarding governance and authority, the importance of institutional constraints, and the potential futures of Russia under Putin. Kotkin emphasizes the need for strong democratic institutions and the relevance of historical understanding in navigating contemporary political landscapes