Meaning: The quote "The essential meaning of perestroika for Gorbachev and his supporters was creating and acting on alternatives to failed and dangerous policies at home and abroad" by Stephen Cohen encapsulates the core intention and purpose behind the reform movement known as perestroika in the Soviet Union during the 1980s. Coined by then-Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, perestroika aimed to restructure and revitalize the country's political, economic, and social systems, with the goal of addressing the failures and risks associated with existing policies both domestically and internationally.

At its heart, perestroika sought to introduce alternative approaches to governance, economic management, and foreign relations, acknowledging the shortcomings and dangers inherent in the status quo. Gorbachev and his allies recognized the urgent need for change and were committed to implementing reforms that would lead to a more sustainable and prosperous future for the Soviet Union.

In the domestic sphere, perestroika aimed to address the inefficiencies and stagnation prevalent in the Soviet economy and bureaucracy. The centrally planned economy had led to widespread inefficiencies, shortages, and a lack of innovation, necessitating a shift towards greater openness, decentralization, and market-oriented reforms. Moreover, the political system was characterized by stagnation and a lack of democratic representation, prompting calls for greater political pluralism and the empowerment of civil society.

On the international stage, Gorbachev's perestroika sought to mend the strained relations between the Soviet Union and the West, particularly the United States. The confrontational policies of the Cold War had resulted in a costly arms race and heightened global tensions, posing significant risks to international stability and security. By advocating for alternatives to these dangerous policies, Gorbachev aimed to foster a more cooperative and peaceful coexistence among nations, emphasizing diplomacy and dialogue over military confrontation.

Stephen Cohen, a prominent scholar on Soviet and Russian history, emphasizes the significance of perestroika as a deliberate and proactive effort to break away from the failed and perilous paths that the Soviet Union had been following. Gorbachev and his supporters recognized the imperative of charting new courses both at home and abroad, acknowledging the necessity of bold and decisive actions to address the systemic challenges facing their country.

In conclusion, the quote by Stephen Cohen underscores the fundamental thrust of perestroika as a transformative endeavor aimed at introducing alternatives to entrenched and hazardous policies within the Soviet Union. This movement, championed by Mikhail Gorbachev, sought to instigate comprehensive reforms in the realms of economics, politics, and international relations, with the overarching goal of steering the country away from its faltering and perilous trajectories. By emphasizing the imperative of change and the pursuit of alternative approaches, perestroika represented a pivotal chapter in the history of the Soviet Union, leaving a lasting impact on the course of global affairs.