Week 5 Flashcards
What is the credibility problem for the dictator?
The dictator cannot credibly state to keep their promises.
What is the military credibility problem?
The military cannot credibly promise to support a dictator
What is the issue for the dictator if their allies are fractionalised?
They cannot credibly claim to support the dictator due to the risk of revolutions within their ranks
What is the dictators solution to fractionalised military allies?
To bring in new civilian allies and get rid of the original inner circle members
Why can’t a military promise support to a dictator?
It may face a coup from lower-ranked officers towards the dictator which the military cannot control
Why does the military need to be disciplined?
In order to gain power & money from the dictator, they must be able to protect the dictator
What are some survival strategies that the dictator can use when facing a fractionalised armed forces?
Give more money to the military, promote loyal officers / retire opponents, create and control paramilitary forces
How does new party creation support a dictator?
It reduces the dictators dependence on the military and can mobilise civilian support
Why does civilian support deter military coups?
Because the military does not want to shoot at it’s own citizens / want unopposed coups.
Why are party members more likely to truly support the dictator?
Because their power & resources are entirely dependent on the dictator
