The Innovation Dilemma and the Consolidation of Autocratic Regimes

Abstract

Despite the obvious, (though as of yet unclear), relationship between economic growth and the persistence of autocratic regimes, only few studies examine how technological innovation affects autocracies – and vice versa. Linking the scholarship on authoritarian consolidation with insights from the National Innovation Systems – and Science and Technology Studies literature; this article argues that innovation policies in autocracies initiate social, economic, and political changes that force a regime to constantly improve its institutional structures and enhance its channels into society. This consolidation of authoritarian rule, in turn, benefits further innovation. As a comparison of China and Myanmar will illustrate, this strategy can enhance a regime’s legitimacy, but is a difficult and risky process. As a result, many regimes instead choose to uphold their rule by relying on repression.