Published in 1997, Foundations of Geopolitics: The Geopolitical Future of Russia is a controversial and influential book written by Russian political theorist and strategist Aleksandr Dugin. The text outlines a vision for Russia’s resurgence as a global superpower through the lens of classical geopolitics, Eurasianism, and strategic alliances. It has gained considerable attention for allegedly shaping the thinking of Russian military and political elites. The book promotes a multipolar world and opposes American global dominance. Though academic in tone, its real-world impact has sparked intense debate both inside and outside of Russia.
Author and Context
Who is Aleksandr Dugin?
Aleksandr Dugin is a Russian philosopher, political analyst, and former professor who is often associated with neo-Eurasianist ideology. His worldview combines nationalism, anti-liberalism, and a belief in a civilizational divide between East and West. Dugin has been a polarizing figure, admired by some in nationalist circles and criticized by others for promoting extremist views.
Timing and Historical Background
The book was published in the late 1990s, during a time when Russia was facing political instability, economic hardship, and reduced international influence after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Dugin’s work aimed to inspire a new direction for Russian foreign policy, rooted in historical power dynamics and geopolitical theory. He believed Russia should reclaim its rightful place as a dominant global force.
Core Concepts of the Book
Eurasianism as Ideological Foundation
Central to the book is the idea of Eurasianism the notion that Russia is not just a European or Asian country but a unique Eurasian civilization. This identity places Russia in opposition to the Atlanticist (Western) world, particularly the United States and the European Union. According to Dugin, Russia’s destiny lies in leading a bloc of nations across the Eurasian landmass in defiance of Western liberalism and globalization.
Multipolarity over Unipolarity
Dugin criticizes the unipolar world order dominated by the United States after the Cold War. He argues for a multipolar system, where different regional powers such as Russia, China, and perhaps a unified Europe have equal influence. This geopolitical balance is seen as essential to resisting what he describes as Western ideological and economic colonization.
Geopolitics as a Tool of Influence
The book draws heavily on classical geopolitical thinkers like Halford Mackinder and Karl Haushofer. Dugin adapts their theories to argue that land power (Eurasia) must dominate sea power (Atlanticist countries like the US and UK). Control over the Heartland central Eurasia is considered the key to global domination. This thinking supports Russian ambitions in Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East.
Strategic Recommendations for Russia
Disruption and Division of Western Powers
Dugin advocates for weakening Western alliances, particularly NATO and the EU, by exploiting political, ethnic, and cultural divisions. He suggests:
- Fomenting separatist movements in the US (such as in California and Texas)
- Undermining unity within the European Union
- Backing populist and nationalist parties in Western Europe
These tactics, according to the book, would help destabilize Western influence and allow Russia to expand its own geopolitical reach.
Territorial Reassertion and Regional Dominance
Dugin proposes that Russia should exert control over its ‘near abroad’ former Soviet republics such as Ukraine, Georgia, and the Baltic states. He views these territories as vital for Russia’s strategic depth and cultural sphere of influence. The book suggests forming a Eurasian empire not through direct conquest, but by promoting friendly regimes, economic dependency, and military pressure.
Strategic Alliances and Bloc Building
To counterbalance the West, Dugin outlines several key partnerships for Russia:
- Germany: Encourage it to leave NATO and align with Russia geopolitically
- China: Build a long-term strategic partnership against the US
- Iran and the Middle East: Expand influence through economic and military collaboration
- India: Engage diplomatically to balance China and Western alliances
These alliances are framed not just in terms of strategy but as partnerships among civilizations resisting liberal globalism.
Ideological and Cultural Dimensions
Anti-Liberalism and Traditional Values
Dugin promotes a strong anti-liberal stance, criticizing Western values such as individualism, secularism, and multiculturalism. Instead, he champions a return to traditional, hierarchical social structures guided by religious or spiritual principles. The book suggests that Russia should embrace Orthodox Christianity and nationalist ideology as unifying forces.
The Role of the State and Military
The book calls for a powerful, centralized Russian state with a strong military capable of asserting influence abroad. Dugin views democracy and free-market capitalism as Western constructs incompatible with Russia’s identity and geopolitical mission. Authoritarianism is considered necessary to maintain internal stability and advance foreign policy goals.
Influence and Criticism
Impact on Russian Military and Political Thought
Foundations of Geopolitics is reported to have been used in the curriculum of Russia’s military academies, particularly in strategic planning and geopolitical studies. While it is unclear to what extent the book has influenced official policy, some of its ideas seem reflected in Russia’s actions in Georgia (2008), Crimea (2014), and ongoing operations in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
Western Perception and Critique
Outside of Russia, the book is often viewed as a dangerous manifesto promoting aggressive nationalism and authoritarianism. Analysts warn that Dugin’s ideas could serve as justification for expansionism, hybrid warfare, and interference in foreign democratic processes. Critics also highlight the book’s conspiratorial tone and lack of academic rigor, dismissing it as more ideological than strategic.
Controversies Around Dugin Himself
Dugin has been banned from several Western countries and placed under international sanctions. His association with far-right groups and his perceived influence over Russian policy have made him a figure of concern among policymakers and scholars alike. Nonetheless, he continues to publish and speak publicly, promoting Eurasianist thought and criticizing the Western liberal order.
The Foundations of Geopolitics presents a provocative and ideologically driven blueprint for Russia’s return to great-power status. Blending traditional geopolitics with cultural and civilizational themes, the book advocates for a world where regional blocs resist the hegemony of Western liberalism. Whether viewed as a strategic document or a political fantasy, it remains an influential and controversial text in understanding contemporary Russian geopolitical thinking. As global power dynamics continue to evolve, the themes within this work continue to echo in modern debates about sovereignty, identity, and international order.