«Толкачи». Параллельные стимулы в сталинской экономической системе. 1930-е – 1950-е годы

Cahiers d'histoire russe, est-européenne, caucasienne et centrasiatique (ex. Cahiers du Monde Russe). 2018. Т. 59. № 2-3. С. 233–254.

Khlevniuk O. V.

Based on new archival documentation, this article investigates the activity of so-called “pushers” (tolkachi). Their role was to facilitate supply issues and ensure that resources were allocated to companies according to the plan; but they also ensured unplanned acquisition of raw materials and equipment. This phenomenon was widespread in the Soviet economy. The activity of tolkachi was one of the most important ways to overcome the contradictions of a shortage-ridden planned allocation system, something of an introduction of market mechanisms in a non-market economy. It violated the rules of centralized planning. The article discusses the campaign against tolkachi in the 1930s-1950s, the forms and practices of tolkachi’s activities. It also aims to analyze and categorize these practices, their reasons, and functions. Finally, it measures the extent of this phenomenon and its consequences for the Soviet economy.

Keywords: снабжение, государственно-плановая экономика, возможности и стимулы, толкачи

Publication based on the results of: War, Power and Society in the USSR, 1930-50s: continuity and changes (2018)