Were are the post-Soviet oligarchs thieves?

The transcript discusses the political imprisonment of Mr. Kosky due to political conflicts in post-Soviet societies. It explores the choices these societies face: becoming authoritarian or privatized oligarch systems. The role of oligarchs like Mr. Berezovsky in Russia's 1990s transformation is highlighted, along with the wealth accumulation by families like Mr. Pinchuk's. The narrative critiques the notion of philanthropy by wealthy individuals who benefited from state sell-offs. It concludes with a discussion on the transparency of Russian companies and the Western world's acceptance of these entities.

What are the two main paths available for post-Soviet societies according to the speaker?

• Communist states with centralized control

• Authoritarian states or oligarchic systems

• Democratic states with strong institutions

• Anarchic states with no governance

Who was a significant figure in the rise of oligarchs in Russia during the late 1990s?

• Mr. Kosky

• Leonid Kuchma

• Mr. Berezovsky

• Elena Franchuk

How did Mr. Pinchuk reportedly acquire much of his wealth?

• Through international trade

• By winning a lottery

• By inheriting family wealth

• As a beneficiary of state asset sell-offs

What is the speaker's view on Elena Franchuk's claim of being a philanthropist?

• Her contributions are insignificant

• She is a role model for others

• Her philanthropy is overshadowed by the family's wealth acquisition

• She is genuinely helping society

What is the Western world's stance on Khodorkovsky's company according to the speaker?

• They are indifferent to its operations

• They reject its practices

• They accept its transparency and practices

• They are unaware of its existence