Authoritarianism

A political system in which a single entity or a small group of individuals holds power, with limited political pluralism

Bicameral Legislature

A lawmaking body made up of two chambers, often representing different interests (e.g. regions, populations)

Bureaucracy

A system of managing gov. through departments run by appointed officials; essential for implementation of laws

Civil Society

Society considered as a community of citizens linked by common interests and collective activity

Corporatism

The organization of society by corporate groups, such as agricultural, labor, military, or scientific affiliations, on the basis of common interests

Democratization

The transition to a more democratic political regime

Devolution

The transfer of power from the central government to regional or local governments

Economic Liberalization

Reduction of state involvement in the economy in favor of private enterprise and market forces

Federalism

A system of government in which entities such as states or provinces share power with a national gov.

First-Past-the-Post (FPTP)

An electoral system in which the candidate with the most votes in a district wins

Globalization

The increasing interconnectedness of the world through economics, politics, and culture

Illiberal Democracy

A regime with elections but lacking key elements like rule of law, civil liberties, or fair competition

Legitimacy

The right and acceptance of an authority, usually a governing law or regime

Nation

A group of people with a shared identify, often tied to culture, language, or ethnicity

Patron-Client Systems

A system in which a powerful figure (patron) provides resources and protection to a less powerful figure (client) in exchange for support and services

Pluralism

A condition or system in which multiple groups, beliefs, or sources of authority coexist and have influence

Political Culture

The set of attitudes, beliefs, and sentiments that shape the political behavior of a society

Political Efficacy

The belief that one's actions can influence the political process

Political Socialization

The process by which individuals learn and frequently internalize a political lens framing their perceptions of how power is arranged and how the world around them is organized

Regime

The form or system of rule or management; a gov. in power

Rentier State

A country that derives much of its revenue from renting natural resources to foreign entities

Rule of Law

The principle that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly applied and enforced (no one is above the law)

Sovereignty

The authority of a state to govern itself or another state

Transparency

The openness and accountability of gov. actions and decisions