Pekingology
Coalitions of the Weak
Feb 27, 2025
Victor Shih, an associate professor at UC San Diego, delves into the intricate elite politics of China, drawing from his insights in elite political strategies. He intriguingly discusses the delicate balance dictators maintain to avoid empowering capable deputies too much, and the shifts in power dynamics post-Mao. Shih also examines how Mao’s 'coalitions of the weak' contrast with Deng's approach and highlights the struggles of 1990s princelings, particularly how Xi Jinping's rise reflects these evolving strategies amid complex internal and geopolitical challenges.
50:14
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Quick takeaways
- Dictators often favor appointing less capable subordinates to mitigate threats, revealing a complex trade-off in maintaining loyalty.
- The concept of 'Coalitions of the Weak' is vital for political survival, illustrating Mao's strategy to navigate challenges by promoting weaker allies.
Deep dives
Understanding Dictatorship Dynamics
The discussion delves into the complexities of maintaining power in a dictatorship, particularly focusing on the balance between appointing competent subordinates and the inherent risks that come with their growing power. While effective governance can be critical, the reality is that dictators often choose to place less capable individuals in important roles to mitigate the threat of usurpation. This trade-off stems from the understanding that loyalty is tenuous in authoritarian regimes; thus, the safest route is to appoint individuals who lack political strength. The analysis highlights how the Crown Prince Dilemma extends beyond China, suggesting universal patterns of power dynamics among leaders.
