4. Copley asserts that China and Russiaare reasserting their identities as empires by reconnecting with historical traditions. He describes China as a composite state attempting to regain its social contract by linking with its imperial past. Similarly, he views Vladimir Putin as a nationalist who has reinvigorated the Russian Orthodox Church and may restore the monarchy. Finally, Copley notes that even the United States, facing the limits of republicanism, seeks legitimacy and "nobility" through symbolic associations with monarchs. This reflects a global trend of seeking leadership that transcends daily politics. (4)
NOVEMBER 1941