This paper is aiming to outline the fundamental features of the Soviet-type system from which the new transitional society is emerging. The Soviet-type system is categorised beyond the `capitalism-socialism' alternative as a system of `etacratism' in which all social and economic relationships are subordinated to the structures of political power. Characteristics reminiscent of the `Asiatic mode of production' and data on top Party functionaries are used to illustrate the essential points of the system under consideration.
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