Russian Exceptionalism: a Comparative Perspective

Abstract

This article seeks to define a certain form of exceptionalism - missionist exceptionalism - and ask to what extent it applies to Russia. The method will be a broad comparative analysis. The core argument is that missionist exceptionalism is fundamentally paradoxical; that polities make largely similar claims about themselves while pleading sui generis uniqueness. This hypothesis is asserted by examining the exceptionalism of other polities. These are two rivals of Russia; the United States and Poland, a “sentimental ally” of Russia, Serbia, and a country with a deep and interesting relationship with Russia, Israel.

Keywords

• exceptionalism
• missionism
• victimhood
• civic religion
• sacred