Political Instability
Definition
Political instability refers to the propensity for regime or government change, political upheaval, or violence in society. It's often caused by conflict between rival parties, corruption, weak institutions, or economic instability.
Analogy
Imagine political instability as a game of musical chairs. When the music stops (a crisis occurs), everyone scrambles for a chair (power). If there aren't enough chairs (stable institutions), chaos ensues.
Related terms
Coup d'etat: A sudden overthrow of a government by a small group within the state establishment.
Revolution: A forcible overthrow of a government or social order in favor of a new system.
Autocracy: A system where one person has absolute power.
"Political Instability" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Practice Questions (1)
- How did political instability within Africa during the Middle Ages affect trans-Saharan trade?
Resources
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