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Hidden authoritarian regimes: What common political institutions are actually operating?
In the global political arena, authoritarianism has gradually emerged with its unique characteristics and operating methods. Such political systems typically reject political pluralism, rely on a strong central government to maintain the existing political status quo, and weaken the influence of democratic institutions, power distribution, civil liberties, and the rule of law. Authoritarianism takes different forms due to differences in national backgrounds and histories, and we need to delve deeper into the common political institutions that operate in these hidden authoritarian regimes.
Characteristics of Authoritarianism
According to research by political scientists, authoritarian systems generally feature highly centralized and concentrated government power, which is often maintained through political repression and the exclusion of any potential challengers. These regimes often use political parties and mass organizations to mobilize the people behind the regime's goals. Scholars such as Adam Prezvodsky have pointed out:
"The authoritarian balance is based primarily on lies, fear, and economic prosperity."
In this system, non-governmental and social institutions are suppressed, and political stability depends primarily on control of the armed forces and the cultivation of loyalty through various forms of socialization and ideological indoctrination.
Authoritarian Constitution
Many authoritarian regimes adopt constitutions that appear to conform to democratic principles. Such a constitution may serve multiple roles, such as serving as a "manual" for the operation of government or a "billboard" announcing the regime's intentions. However, these constitutions often do not set limits on executive power and can even achieve the effect of strengthening the regime under the guise of tyranny and despotism.
"An authoritarian constitution that successfully coordinates government actions and defines people's expectations is effective in consolidating the regime's grip on power."
The relationship between economy and authoritarian regimes
The role of economic development under authoritarianism should not be underestimated. Some scholars believe that economic growth tends to increase people's support for authoritarian regimes, making them stable in the short and medium term. However, such support does not necessarily mean an inevitable process of democratization. On the contrary, authoritarian regimes may use economic means to design programs such as land reform to strengthen their own rule.
Institutions and Authoritarianism
Authoritarian regimes often mimic the political structures of democracies, such as legislatures and judiciary systems, but use them to strengthen their own power. The functions of these institutions are completely different from those in democratic societies. They are often used to monitor and suppress opponents and undermine the rule of law.
"Authoritarian elections are often subject to fraud and restrictions on the opposition, and in most cases, those in power use various means to suppress public opinion and opposition voices."
Interaction between the masses and the elite
The stability of authoritarian regimes is based on two main foundations: avoiding challenges from the population and other elites. These regimes will use either cooperation or repression to maintain their rule. To successfully maintain power, authoritarian rulers must balance elite and popular support in resource allocation.
The Importance of Information ManipulationAuthoritarian regimes are increasingly relying on information operations rather than violence to maintain control, according to new research. By creating false images of their achievements and masking their repression of opposition, authoritarian leaders attempt to simulate a democratic system to some extent.
Institutional fragility and resilience
Although authoritarian regimes appear to be consolidated on the surface, their fragility cannot be ignored. Many authoritarian systems are vulnerable to collapse due to lack of legitimacy, over-reliance on force, and excessive centralization of power. However, the unique durability of the Communist Party of China poses a challenge to this. Factors of its success include the normative nature of power, the meritocratic selection of internal elites, and enhanced political participation mechanisms.
ConclusionThrough a multi-dimensional analysis of authoritarian regimes, it is not difficult to discover the contradictions and struggles between their internal operations and external manifestations. These regimes often face internal challenges and external pressures while maintaining centralization. Ultimately, this raises a deeper question: In an increasingly complex global political landscape, can latent authoritarianism still gain a foothold in the political arena of the future, or will it be replaced by various democratic forces?
