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Comparing the Leninist, Stalinist, and post-Stalin regimes in the Soviet Union with various communist regimes that evolved in East Europe helps to evaluate their similarities and differences. The post-Stalin period ushered in great diversity among various communist regimes based on which three groups of states can be demarcated. The most important difference is the distinction between developmental and reconstructionist regimes. The existing contrasts are of great historical relevance and also help Chinese and Russian students to evaluate the prospects of their respective countries.

Interesting features of historical continuity are stagnation and the economic under development of Eastern Europe, which remains a marginalized part of Europe that has degenerated over the past centuries. Communist economies have become poorer since World War II. However, new regimes which came to power after the revolutions of 1989-90, have returned to liberal pluralistic policies. Their ability to grow economically has become obvious from the new free-market system and increasing aid from Western countries.

The article discusses the development of European politics from 1780 to 1945. The author begins by exploring the patterns of class formation and state building in the continent, in political context. Then, he offers new explanation regarding political differentiation in Europe from the late 18th century to the middle of the 20th century. Finally, he examines the significance of several hypotheses related to the politics of international economic inequality to gain further understanding on the main problem of the contemporary political economy in Europe.