lecture 1

Question 1

Problem of Authoritarian Control

Answer 1

Conflict between autocratic ruler and the masses excluded from power

Question 2

Problem of Authoritarian Power-Sharing

Answer 2

Conflict among autocratic ruling elite

Question 3

Authoritarian Power-Sharing and Authoritarian Control are exacerbated by

Answer 3

a) the lack of an independent authority that credibly enforces agreements and

b) the constant threat of violence

Question 4

Seizure Group

Answer 4

small group that initiates the dictatorship and their organized support base

Question 5

Launching Group

Answer 5

group that takes the power and runs the state

Question 6

Ruling Coalition

Answer 6

set of individuals who support a dictator and guarantee regime survival.

Question 7

Selectorate

Answer 7

: set of individuals who select the leader.

Question 8

central features of
authoritarian politics.

Answer 8

Bargaining and conflict between the dictator and members of the inner circle

Question 9

The Role Seizure Groups

Answer 9

shape the political processes and decision-making in authoritarian regimes:
Who becomes the leader? Who gets which office? What institutions are established? What policies are
implemented?
(exogenous, institutions are indogenous)

Question 10

Types of Seizure Groups

Answer 10

Military Officers and Soldiers
Come into power via coups (sometimes handed political control during popular uprisings).
Control of weapons, hierarchical organization structure and technocratic decision-making style.
Example: military dictatorship in Argentina 1976-1983.

Civilians Organized in a Party
Come into power via “authorianization” after competitive elections, by insurgency or foreign occupier.
Great experience in bargaining, cooptation, and securing electoral support.
Example: communist party of China

Ruling Families
Come into power via conquests of territory by family-led group, usurpation of a monarchy or
imposition of former colonial power.
Power is dispersed within the ruling lineage.
Example: Al Saud family dynasty in Saudi Arabia