The Dictator's Handbook

The Dictator's Handbook by Bruce Bueno de Mesquita and Alastair Smith is a canonical work on political science that challenges conventional wisdom. The authors begin with a striking assertion: leaders do whatever is necessary to stay in power. They are indifferent to the "national interest" or the welfare of their subjects unless compelled to consider them.

Newly updated to reflect the global rise of authoritarianism, this clever and accessible book elucidates how leaders acquire and maintain power. Bueno de Mesquita and Smith argue that democracy is, in essence, a convenient fiction. The distinction among governments lies not in their nature but in the number of essential supporters or backers they must satisfy. The size of this group affects almost every aspect of politics, including what leaders can get away with and the quality of life or misery experienced by the populace. It also holds the key to returning power to the people.