This course deals with various genres of the Russian political discourse including political journalism, political sciences, political slogans, political jokes, programs of political parties, speeches of political leaders, etc. In particular, we will analyze present-day Russian political texts and discuss radical changes in the vocabulary of the modern Russian political and administrative system (names of administrative and political institutions and positions). We will pay special attention to the manipulative ploys used in Russian political discourse. The course grade will be based on student homework, participation in class discussion and a final exam.