Democracy and Autocracy: Theories and Empirical Findings

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This course is part of the IPSAMOOC project, a joint venture Federica Weblearning - IPSA, the International Political Science Association

Democracy and Autocracy are core concepts of Political Science but they are also contested concepts. It is important, therefore, to understand the basic theories underpinning these two types of regime.

The last few decades have seen regime change become one of the main topics in democracy studies. The aim of this course is to analyze why and how democratic regimes emerge from autocratic regimes,as well as why and how democratic regression or democratic breakdown takes place.

As evidenced by events of the last few decades, we also need to subdivide these root concepts into subtypes that reflect deficient forms of democracy or moderate forms of autocracy.

From 1990 onwards, in particular, we can see that democratization and autocratization have taken diverse pathways, and we have witnessed progress and regression in the worldwide development of democracy; often with a considerable variety of democratic or autocratic subtypes. This course explores these developments.

What you will learn

• The theories underpinning the key concepts of Democracy and Autocracy
• New subtypes of democracy and autocracy
• How and why democracies emerge, regress or break down

Skills you learn

• Political Sciences

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Discover the intricate dynamics of governance with the "Democracy and Autocracy: Theories and Empirical Findings" course. This foundational course delves into the critical examination of various government forms, focusing on how democracy and autocracy develop, transform, and influence our societies. Offered by edX, this engaging program spans five weeks, providing in-depth insights into the mechanisms that can ensure a free, fair, and just life. Ideal for those interested in personal development, this course is perfect for learners seeking to understand the theoretical and empirical aspects of political systems. Flexible subscription options, including Professional and Starter plans, make it accessible for diverse learning needs and schedules. Join now to enhance your knowledge and make informed observations about the political structures that shape our world.