Expert Opinion: Image of the Ideal Politician in Russia
The article presents a detailed analysis of the online survey, aimed at defining the image of the ideal political figure in Russia, i.e. demands from the society and from the government, the specific characteristics of policies and criteria for success in politics, the possible obstacles to its achievement. The method of research is the expert survey of 174 professionals from public administration and policy, scientific and business communities. The experts were selected based on recommendations from other experts; all experts have at least 5 years' professional or academic experience in the field of research, have contributed to science and on constant basis take part in sessions and meetings held by the authorities. This article contains results of the analysis of social and psychological factors, which influence the formation process of the image of a politician. Further, we describe the characteristic features of political leaders, as well as analyze the experts' associative array on the term “political leader” and show the purposes of those who engage in politics. During the analysis, some interesting facts about the criteria of political success have been established. For instance, participants of the survey identified the stages of life, events and situations that affect political success. To conclude, there is a request for a strong and credible political leader in Russia, who is a professional, an effective manager (with the experience of making important management decisions and the correct prediction of socio-political situation). It is also notable that transparency was called one of the most important characteristics of an ideal politician's behavior.