Professor Konstantin Sonin examines the Russian economy's supposed downturn and the fate of the Putin regime March 23, 2016 Jake J. Smith Last spring, Konstantin Sonin left Moscow, where he was teaching at the Higher School of Economics, and headed to Chicago to join the Chicago Harris faculty. Sonin has since settled into his new role at Harris, where he was recently named the John Dewey Distinguished Service Professor. Russia has made headlines over the past year, notably for its bombing campaigns in Syria and domestic economic trends: a rising budget deficit, declining oil prices, and the collapse of the ruble. In the latest episode of Radio Harris, we sit down with Professor Sonin to get his perspective on these issues — both as a Russian emigrant and as a renowned political scientist and trusted commentator. We’ll also hear about his trip to the Iowa Caucuses, and why he suspects Vladimir Putin’s regime is coming to an end. To make sure you never miss a new episode of Radio Harris, subscribe on iTunes or follow us on SoundCloud! Faculty Spotlight Konstantin Sonin John Dewey Distinguished Service Professor Konstantin Sonin, John Dewey Distinguished Service Professor at Harris Public Policy, is a frequent columnist on Russian political and economic issues in addition to his academic work in political economics, development and economic theory. Upcoming Events More events Civic Leadership Academy 2026 Virtual Information Session Wed., July 16, 2025 | 12:00 PM Bridging Capital and Communities: Integrating Impact Investing, Real Estate Development, and Public Policy Thu., July 17, 2025 | 7:00 PM Harris Summer Mixer in Beijing Fri., July 18, 2025 | 6:00 PM Maison Flo 18 Xiaoyun Rd Chaoyang Qu Beijing Shi, 100027 China
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