How Autocrats Seek Power 1st Edition

Bold new insights into the mechanics of authoritarian rule jump off the page in How Autocrats Seek Power, 1st Edition by Richard L. Abel. This timely political analysis captures attention with clear, rigorous explanations of how leaders undermine democratic norms and consolidate control across diverse global settings.

Drawing on comparative politics, legal scholarship, and contemporary case studies from Europe to Latin America, Africa, Asia and the United States, Abel lays out the strategies autocrats use—institutional capture, legal manipulation, media control, and elite co-optation—so readers can recognize patterns before they become entrenched. The prose is accessible yet scholarly, making this volume essential for students, researchers, policymakers, journalists, and engaged citizens alike.

What sets this edition apart is its practical framing: each chapter links historical examples to present-day risks, offering a roadmap for identifying early warning signs and defending democratic institutions. The book’s analytical depth supports classroom use and professional reference, while vivid vignettes and comparative charts help translate complex theory into actionable understanding.

Whether you’re teaching a course in authoritarianism, briefing a legislative body, or seeking to deepen your grasp of global political trends, How Autocrats Seek Power, 1st Edition equips you with the concepts and language to spot and counter the rise of illiberal governance. Thought-provoking, meticulously researched, and urgently relevant, this title belongs on the shelf of anyone committed to democracy and accountable power.

Order your copy today to deepen your understanding of authoritarian strategies and the defenses that preserve free societies.

Note: eBooks do not include supplementary materials such as CDs, access codes, etc.