About the book
Behind the Façade examines the question of why authoritarian regimes in Southeast Asia bother holding elections. Using comprehensive case studies of Cambodia, Myanmar, and Singapore, Lee Morgenbesser argues that elections allow authoritarian regimes to collect information, pursue legitimacy, manage political elites, and sustain neopatrimonial domination. He demonstrates how these functions are employed to manage the complex strategic interaction that occurs between dictators, political elites, and citizens. Far from being mere window dressing or even a precursor to democracy, flawed elections, Morgenbesser concludes, are paramount to the maintenance of authoritarian rule.
Editions of Behind the Facade
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9781438462875
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781438462882
- PDF
- ISBN 9781438462899
Read an Excerpt
Behind the Façade examines the question of why authoritarian regimes in Southeast Asia bother holding elections. Using comprehensive case studies of Cambodia, Myanmar, and Singapore, Lee Morgenbesser argues that elections allow authoritarian regimes to collect information, pursue legitimacy, manage political elites, and sustain neopatrimonial domination. He demonstrates how these functions are employed to manage the complex strategic interaction that occurs between dictators, political elites, and citizens. Far from being mere window dressing or even a precursor to democracy, flawed elections, Morgenbesser concludes, are paramount to the maintenance of authoritarian rule.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Behind the Facade about?
Behind the Façade examines the question of why authoritarian regimes in Southeast Asia bother holding elections. Using comprehensive case studies of Cambodia, Myanmar, and Singapore, Lee Morgenbesser argues that elections allow authoritarian regimes to collect information, pursue legitimacy, manage political elites, and sustain neopatrimonial domination. He demonstrates how these functions are employed to manage the complex strategic interaction that occurs between dictators, political elites, and citizens. Far from being mere window dressing or even a precursor to democracy, flawed elections, Morgenbesser concludes, are paramount to the maintenance of authoritarian rule.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Behind the Facade?
Society and Social Sciences > Politics and government > Comparative politics
Where can I read a sample of Behind the Facade?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9781438462875
How long is Behind the Facade and how many pages does it have?
Behind the Facade has 292 page(s)
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Behind the Facade?
Lee Morgenbesser
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Behind the Facade is available as hardcover(ISBN 9781438462875) and paperback(ISBN 9781438462882) and pdf(ISBN 9781438462899)
Where can I buy Behind the Facade online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Behind the Facade from below
Where can I buy Behind the Facade?