The dynamics of democratic recession Economics, Polarisation and Autocratisation
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2021-08-16
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en
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Abstract
There is a third wave of autocratisation, as it is a new phenomenon there are relatively
few explanations and many new avenues for research. We review the literature on democratic
recession and find that while there is much attention for the role of polarisation, none have
sought to understand when autocratisation occurs. We argue that when confronted with
worsening economic circumstances, an incumbent will have to resort to alternative measures,
in this case autocratisation. Seeking to be re-elected and enact their preferred policies, the
incumbent will polarise in an attempt divide the electorate and prevent mobilisation against
their autocratic policies. We highlight the plausibility of this theoretical mechanism in an
illustrative case study of democratic recession in India between 2014 and 2019. We further
provide preliminary evidence that indicates that the mechanism is potentially valid, although
further research is warranted.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen