<P>First published in 1978, this unique&nbsp;work throws much-needed light upon the exact nature of privilege and elite life-styles in the contemporary&nbsp;Soviet Union, under the Communist regime. Dr Matthews' study places these life-styles in a historical perspective, and characterises, in sociological terms, the people who enjoy them.</P>
<P>Dr Matthews has lived for some years in the Soviet Union and this study is based on an extensive programme of personal interviews among <EM>emigré</EM> groups and a close analysis of original and little-known legal historical sources.</P>
<P>There are special sections on the nature of change in the Soviet elite and on social mobility. This reissue will attract interest amongst students and scholars&nbsp;in the fields of history, politics and sociology who specialise&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Soviet Union; it will also be of interest to all those concerned with the age-old problem of social equality.</P>