Graduated from the Faculty of Psychology at Moscow State University in 1976; later earned a Ph. D. in Psychology. Served as a faculty member at Moscow State University, specializing in interpersonal relations and political psychology.
In the 1990s, became an advisor to Yegor Gaidar and Anatoly Chubais. Held leadership roles in political movements such as Democratic Choice of Russia and Union of Right Forces. Co-chaired the Right Cause party.
