Includes bibliographical references and index.

1. Land and people. Geography of the Soul -- Climate -- Russian Waters -- The Russian Federation -- Government and Politics -- A Brief History -- The Tragic Twentieth Century -- Russian Society Today -- 2. Values and attitudes. Attitudes Toward Authority -- Social Justice -- Attitudes Toward the Individual -- Nashe-Ne Moje (Ours Does Not Mean Mine) -- National Pride -- Responding to Change -- The Family Unit -- Attitudes Toward Women -- Spirituality -- Optimistic Fatalism -- Superstitions -- Emotions--Measuring the Immeasurable -- I Pity Him, So I Love Him -- Portrait of a Russian -- Resilience -- 3. Customs and traditions. National Holidays and Festivals -- "Working" Holidays and Festivals -- "Professional" Holidays -- 4. Making friends. Distance and Volume -- Topics of Conversation -- Humor -- Generosity of Spirit -- Vodka -- Parties -- Invitations Home -- Don't Write About It! -- Dating For Foreigners -- 5. The Russians at home. Family Life -- Everyday Life -- Homes and Housing -- Some Social Activities -- Education -- Health Care -- Military Conscription -- 6. Time out. Eating Out -- Nightlife -- Art -- Theater -- Music -- The Circus -- Sunday Guests -- The Great Outdoors -- Sports -- The Banya -- 7. Travel, health, and safety. A Tale of Two Cities -- Destinations -- Public Transportation -- Driving -- Where to Stay -- Health -- Safety Tips -- 8. Business briefing. The Business Environment -- Corruption -- The Legal System -- Business Culture -- Personal Relationships -- Work Ethic -- Management Culture -- Women in Business -- Meetings -- Promises -- Business Gifts -- Negotiations -- Contracts -- Managing Disagreement -- 9. Communicating. The Russian Language -- Formal and Informal Address -- Up Close and Personal -- The Media -- Services -- Conclusion.