The Pete Quiñones Show Pete Reads 'Coup D'état' by Edward N. Luttwak with Guests - Complete Part 1 of 2
Jun 8, 2025
In this discussion, John Fieldhouse, a former Army officer and expert in insurgency and military coups, joins the conversation. They delve into Edward N. Luttwak's insights from 'Coup D'état,' discussing how social media has transformed the dynamics of political upheavals. The connections between corruption, economic conditions, and citizen discontent are explored, highlighting the relevance of these themes to both historical and contemporary scenarios. Additionally, they analyze the complexities of military loyalty and the intricate relationship between citizens and power during a coup.
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Managerial States Challenge Coups
- Effective coups require a state apparatus large enough to seize but not so impersonal that nobody listens to the new regime.
- Managerial states pose a complex challenge for coups as control depends on both machinery and loyalty.
Social Conditions and Coup Viability
- Coup viability relates closely to social and economic conditions, including literacy, poverty, and political awareness.
- Political participation confined to elites creates vulnerabilities to coups due to populace passivity.
Importance of Political Center
- Coup outcomes depend heavily on whether the state has a recognized political center.
- Multiple power centers or ethno-regional blocs complicate or may block successful coups.