Maintaining Power in Authoritarian Regimes

These flashcards cover key concepts related to how authoritarian regimes maintain power through various tactics such as co-optation, repression, and the use of legitimacy.

Authoritarian Regimes

Non-democracies that maintain power through a mix of persuasion, pressure, repression, co-optation, and efforts at legitimation.

The Dictator’s Dilemma

The uncertainty of an authoritarian ruler about their level of popular support, which can lead to increased repression.

Co-optation

A tactic where regimes provide benefits to potential challengers to create dependence and loyalty.

Populism

A political approach where leaders advocate distrust of elites and claim to represent the common people.

Clientelism

A type of patronage where individual patronage and kickbacks are exchanged for political support.

Kleptocracy

A government characterized by rampant corruption and the exploitation of state resources by those in power.

Repression

A pressure tactic used by authoritarian regimes to coerce support and minimize opposition through threats and violence.

Censorship

The restriction of information and freedom of expression to prevent opposition and maintain control.

Charisma

An emotional appeal or personal charm that a leader may use to cultivate support and legitimacy.

Patrimonialism

A system in which a ruler provides benefits to a particular group, reinforcing existing social hierarchies.