James Loxton

In this discussion, Dr. James Loxton, a senior lecturer in political science at the University of Sydney and author of *Authoritarianism: A Very Short Introduction*, explores the precarious balance between democracy and dictatorship. He highlights the warning signs of democratic decline, the allure of charismatic leaders, and the dynamics of anti-democratic sentiments. With insights from his experiences in Latin America and a comparison of political systems, Loxton examines how countries can slide into authoritarianism and the factors that influence this global trend.

In this engaging conversation, James Loxton, a Senior Lecturer in Comparative Politics at the University of Sydney, delves into the intricacies of authoritarian regimes. He defines the big three types: military, single-party, and personalist. Loxton highlights how internal constraints, informal institutions, and elite purges shape leadership dynamics. They discuss the durability of regimes, challenges in governance, and the enduring value of democracy. The talk also examines the pitfalls of information in authoritarian states and what causes their eventual collapse.