GOVT 2283

Political Institutions Under Autocrats

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2020-2021.

Why do so many autocracies today have electoral systems, political parties, legislatures, and courts that mimic the institutions of a democracy? How do institutions help autocrats to maintain political order and what risks do they pose? This course will examine various models and modes of authoritarian rule, emphasizing the wide variation within the category of nondemocratic regimes. In particular, we will explore why some authoritarian regimes are more institutionalized than others and consider how legislatures, ruling parties, and other authoritarian institutions affect regime longevity, economic development, and the likelihood of violent conflict. We will conclude by studying cases of de-democratization and consider how democratic institutions can be used to undermine democracy.

When Offered Fall.

Breadth Requirement (GB)
Distribution Category (SBA-AS, SSC-AS)
Course Subfield (CP)

View Enrollment Information