The law of the steppe

Roman (“steppe law”) Putin

I recently wrote an article for the Scottish Review of Books in which I discussed what a Russian friend of mine calls “steppe law” (степное право). The essence of it is that, in a land without roads or courts, where the Khan is, there is the law. As he puts it, looking round the room with one hand shading his eyes: “Где Хан? Там закон”.

     In Russia today, the Khan is Mr Putin, so it came as no surprise to read in this morning’s Moscow Times a story with the headline: “Putin’s Relative Promises‘Special Protection’ for Firm’s Foreign Clients”. It seems that Mr Putin’s “first cousin, once removed” understands the realities of a steppe law system.  His website, at Putin Consulting), makes this revealing assertion:

“It is a well known fact that investors in Russia often face corruption, aggressive bureaucracy, extortion from local and municipal authorities, and the unfair games of competitors.”

     Roman Putin (for that is his name) goes on to say:

“The nature of business management in Russia implies close interaction with the state authorities. When treading uncharted waters, accurate guidance must be provided.  Therefore, it is vital to have a consultant who has influence within the state authorities, ranging from the Government and Office of the President to the leading banks and State Corporations.”

     That is a description of steppe law if ever I saw it.

     I wrote offering to correct the grammar in this website. I wonder if I will get a reply? I have in mind such solecisms as “treading uncharterd waters”. Only Christ claimed to be able to walk on, or “tread” water, unless this is taken to have the meaning applied to swimming, in which “treading water” means simply staying afloat without moving in any direction.
     On reflection, maybe that reading is the correct one and the site needs no improvement. In which case, we can all relax and get back into bed alongside Mr Oblomov, as it were.