Politics of Democratic Breakdown

Democratic breakdown as a political and historic event can impact the fate of millions,if not hundreds of millions of people,by changing the political complexion of a country. This book attempts to systematically explain why democracies collapse,based on the examination of two factors: political cleavages among voters and the types of political and institutional arrangements under democratic regimes. The empirical research is based on a comparative historical analysis of Germany,Nigeria,Chile,and India.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 394 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Democratic breakdown, as a political and historical event, holds immense significance in shaping the destiny of millions, if not hundreds of millions, of people. It exerts a profound impact on the political landscape of a nation, altering the balance of power and influencing the course of events. In this comprehensive book, the author endeavors to provide a systematic explanation for the collapse of democracies.

The author's central theoretical framework revolves around two key factors. The first factor examines political cleavages among voters, recognizing the potential for these divisions to ignite severe political conflicts and escalate into fierce political confrontations. These conflicts can have far-reaching societal consequences, leading to major upheaval and significant disruptions.

The second factor revolves around the types of political and institutional arrangements under democratic regimes. The author argues that centrifugal democratic regimes, characterized by a concentration of power in the hands of a few, tend to weaken government capacity or state capacity. This weakening makes governments incapable of effectively resolving political conflicts, thereby increasing the likelihood of these conflicts remaining unresolved and escalating into severe political crises.

When these two factors converge, the likelihood of democratic regimes collapsing significantly increases. This convergence can manifest in various ways, such as the erosion of democratic norms, the decline of political institutions, and the rise of authoritarianism. These situations can ultimately lead to the collapse of democratic regimes, as witnessed in various countries throughout history.

To support their arguments, the author conducts an empirical research based on a comparative historical analysis of Germany, Nigeria, Chile, and India. By examining democratic collapses from both theoretical and empirical perspectives, this book offers valuable insights to scholars and researchers engaged in the study of democracy, Political Science, Comparative Politics, and Political Theory.

In conclusion, democratic breakdown is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that requires a comprehensive understanding. This book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the factors that contribute to democratic collapse and offers valuable insights for policymakers and individuals seeking to promote and sustain democratic institutions.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032266169