Autocratic Legalism Kim Lane Scheppele __hot__ 〈SIMPLE ⇒〉

The genius of the "Frankenstate" is that it allows autocrats to claim they are simply aligning their country with "Western standards." When international observers criticize them, they can point to the source material and ask, "Why is it legal for you, but illegal for us?"

Redrafting rules to ensure the governing party remains in power indefinitely. autocratic legalism kim lane scheppele

Most people assume autocracies rule by brute force or outright lawlessness. Kim Lane Scheppele flips this script. The genius of the "Frankenstate" is that it

In contrast, treats the legal system as a tool for the state to communicate and enforce its will. Autocratic legalists often claim they are following the rule of law because their reforms are technically "legal"—enacted according to constitutional procedures—but the substantive effect is the destruction of democratic accountability. Case Studies: Hungary and Beyond In contrast, treats the legal system as a

Scheppele defines autocratic legalism as the deliberate use of legal and constitutional engineering to implement an illiberal agenda. These leaders come to power through free and fair elections and then use their mandates to: