ABSTRACT
The conception of Russia as fundamentally different, as the 'other', has long been dominant in Western thought. After the demise of the Soviet Union, when Russia developed into a form of hybrid state instead of a 'normal' Western democracy, this view became even more pronounced. Contrary to common belief, during the most influential periods in the history of Russian liberalism, nationalism and/or imperialism were fundamental to the liberal project of forming a modern Russian state equal to, and recognized by, the West. The Decembrist movement formulated the most clearly expressed notions of liberal nationalism in Russia. In order to resolve the tension between modernization and authenticity, and the feeling of backwardness among the educated elite, it was essential to form a Russian national culture that was progressive and could contribute to a universal cultural development. Nationalism and imperialism were interlinked with liberalism in the ideology of the Kadets.
