This book provides a spectrum of views about the Gorbachev phenomenon, including perspectives from the United States, Western Europe and the East European societies. The contributors, which include Cornelius Castoriadis, Wlodzimierz Brus, Alec Nove and Agnes Heller, are well known and respected commentators on Eastern block developments. The result is an in-depth examination of the changing character of Soviet society, politics, economics and foreign policy. It aims to be a basic source for anyone specializing in a study of the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, but will also be useful for students in politics, sociology, economics and international relations.