“Ideological brainwashing constitutes the essence and foundation of the formation of the Soviet man. […]. As part of ideological training, people learn to “correctly” interpret the phenomena that they are comforted with in their lives. […] This is not a question of stupidity. The ideological man thus trained does not become stupid. rather, it is the opposite effect that takes place. p. 638”

Soviet philosopher, writer, sociologist and journalist

Alexander Alexandrovich Zinoviev was a Soviet philosopher, writer, sociologist and journalist. He worked across several fields of thought and public writing, and is remembered for his social criticism and his wide-ranging commentary on Soviet life. His work brought together philosophy, sociology, journalism, and literature. He wrote about society and politics, often with a critical eye, and his name remains associated with sharp observations on the Soviet system and the world around it.