The Rise of Sophisticated Authoritarianism in Southeast Asia

Offers a new understanding of the evolution of authoritarian rule in Southeast Asia, revealing differences within and across authoritarian regimes.

Lee Morgenbesser (Author)

9781108457231, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 16 April 2020

75 pages, 14 b/w illus.
23 x 15.3 x 0.6 cm, 0.2 kg

This Element offers a way to understand the evolution of authoritarian rule in Southeast Asia. The theoretical framework is based on a set of indicators (judged for their known advantages and mimicry of democratic attributes) as well as a typology (conceptualized as two discreet categories of 'retrograde' and 'sophisticated' authoritarianism). Working with an original dataset, the empirical results reveal vast differences within and across authoritarian regimes in Southeast Asia, but also a discernible shift towards sophisticated authoritarianism over time. The Element concludes with a reflection of its contribution and a statement on its generalizability.

1. Introduction
2. The quality of authoritarian rule
3. Between retrograde and sophisticated authoritarianism
4. Retrograde and sophisticated authoritarianism in Southeast Asia
5. Conclusion.

Subject Areas: International relations [JPS], Regional government [JPR], Political leaders & leadership [JPHL], Political structure & processes [JPH]