Unit 5: Dynamics of Regime Transition and Political Evolution

Political Change

The shifting of power, policy, or regime type within a state.

Democratization

The transformation of a regime from authoritarianism to democracy.

Substantive Democracy

A democracy that ensures civil liberties, rule of law, and a neutral judiciary.

Procedural Democracy

A democracy that holds elections but restricts civil rights and liberties.

Democratic Consolidation

The institutionalization of a new democratic order, seen as the only viable governance system.

The Two-Turnover Test

A heuristic for successful democratic consolidation, where power transitions occur peacefully.

Democratic Backsliding

The gradual decline in the quality of democracy, often through legal manipulation.

Reform

Changes made within existing political institutions to improve conditions without overthrowing them.

Revolution

A fundamental change in political and social institutions, often involving violence.

Coup d'état

A seizure of power, usually by the military, seeking to replace leadership rather than overhaul the regime.

Centrifugal Forces

Factors that divide the people of a state leading to fragmentation.

Centripetal Forces

Factors that unify the people of a state, helping to maintain stability.

Supranational Organizations

Groups that transcend national boundaries, impacting sovereignty, like the EU.

Economic Liberalization

The movement towards free markets, often reducing government control over the economy.

Rule BY Law

Using law as a tool for control in authoritarian states.

Rule OF Law

The principle that laws apply to both the government and citizens in democracies.

Civil Society

The space for collective action outside of the state, important for substantive democracy.

Media Freedom

The right of media to operate independently from government control, crucial for democratic health.

Hybrid Regime

A political system that has both democratic and authoritarian elements, often with flawed elections.

Authoritarianism

A governing system characterized by strong central power and limited political freedoms.

Electoral Laws

Regulations governing how elections are conducted and how votes are counted.

Mass Participation

Involvement of large segments of the population in political activities or movements.

Constitutional Protection

Legal safeguards to ensure individual rights and liberties are maintained.

Nation vs. State

The difference between a group of people with a shared identity (nation) and the governing apparatus (state).

Fragmentation

The breakdown of social cohesion leading to division within a state.

Charismatic Leader

A political figure who inspires loyalty and attracts followers based on personal qualities.