As alluded to yesterday, I began a short discussion about Vladimir Putin with a friend on Facebook. Spurring on the discussion was her happiness was Time magazine naming Putin Man of the Year. I opined that I am a bit more skeptical about Putin and his brand of politics. Our brief discussion included some reference material for me to understand Putin better. I also did a Google search of the news sites for some more information.
On the surface, being Man of the Year appears to be an endorsement from Time. In fact, I would venture to think most people would view the award as such. Nevertheless, it is important to remember the words of Richard Stengel managing editor of Time Magazine. “Stengel stressed that being chosen person of the year was “not an endorsement” and “not a popularity contest” and that Time chose individuals who had made the biggest impact on world events, “for better or for worse.”“ In fact, in the past, Joseph Stalin and Adolph Hitler have both been Time’s Man of the Year.
However, let us get back to Putin whose legacy likely will join the ranks of “for worse” impact on world events. CNN has an excellent primer about Putin entitled the insider’s guide to Vladimir Putin. In addition, Time’s piece on Putin is an excellent read, and presents the good with the bad. Below you will find my comments and musings about Putin.