Gorbachev's Reforms: A Helpless or Reckless Revolution?

This essay examines the reasons for the failure of Gorbachev's reforms, particularly the role of entrenched interests in the demise of the USSR. It compares two contrasting narratives: the "helpless" narrative, which argues that Gorbachev lacked power and was obstructed by powerful bureaucratic interests; and the "reckless" narrative, which contends that Gorbachev possessed significant power but pursued reckless reforms, especially the lack of crucial price reform, ultimately leading to the collapse of the USSR. By analyzing Gorbachev's power, personnel changes, and economic reforms, and by reinterpreting the coup against Khrushchev, the essay supports the "reckless" narrative, suggesting that Gorbachev's idealism and disregard for institutions were the primary causes of the USSR's collapse.