Political Ethics in Illiberal Regimes: A Realist Interpretation

Living in an illiberal regime is difficult due to the moral deviations from what is acceptable. The book "Political Ethics in Illiberal Regimes" argues that the common language of normative political theory is not sufficient to capture the experience of living in such regimes. It presents a novel theoretical language, Williamsian, liberal, and realist, to articulate this experience and examines how politicians, experts, and citizens in illiberal regimes are confronted with role-specific, political-ethical challenges and how their roles shape their agency.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

Living in an illiberal regime can be a complex and challenging experience that defies conventional ethical norms and principles. Ethical life in totalitarian regimes is often criticized for its deviation from what is considered morally acceptable, as it is governed by a centralized authority that imposes strict control over individual freedoms and rights. However, it is important to note that illiberal regimes share certain similarities with liberal democracies, making it difficult to generalize about the experience of living there.

Political ethics in illiberal regimes challenges the traditional understanding of normative political theory and argues that it is inadequate in capturing the unique experience of living in such regimes. On the one hand, it is evident that illiberal regimes pose significant dangers and are undesirable from a moral standpoint. However, on the other hand, it is perplexing why millions of reasonable people choose to live in these regimes.

The book aims to provide a novel theoretical language, called "Williamsian, liberal, and realist," to articulate the experience of living in an illiberal regime. In Part I, the theoretical framework is laid out, while in Part II, the challenges and agency of politicians, experts, and citizens in illiberal regimes are examined. The book explores how the specific normative contexts of their roles shape their actions and decisions, and how they navigate the ethical dilemmas and conflicts that arise in these contexts.

Living in an illiberal regime can be characterized by a lack of freedom of expression, limited political participation, and a pervasive sense of surveillance and control. Individuals are often subjected to censorship, surveillance, and arbitrary arrests, and their rights and freedoms are frequently violated. The government may control the media, suppress opposition voices, and manipulate public opinion to maintain its power.

Despite these challenges, individuals in illiberal regimes can find ways to cope and adapt to their environment. Some may seek to engage in covert opposition or underground movements, while others may choose to conform to the regime's rules in order to survive. Some may also find solace in their communities or religious institutions, which provide a sense of support and community.

However, living in an illiberal regime can also have significant psychological and emotional consequences. Individuals may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, and a loss of self-esteem as they are constantly subjected to surveillance and control. They may also feel isolated and powerless, as their voices are not heard and their actions are limited.

In conclusion, living in an illiberal regime is a complex and challenging experience that defies conventional ethical norms and principles. While it is evident that illiberal regimes pose significant dangers and are undesirable, it is important to recognize that individuals in these regimes have their own unique experiences and perspectives. The book provides a novel theoretical language to articulate the experience of living in an illiberal regime and explores the challenges and agency of politicians, experts, and citizens in these contexts.

Weight: 466g
Dimension: 164 x 344 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526142344