Lunch & Learn • Constructing Dictatorship from Above and Below: The Emotional Foundations of the Putin Regime

Political scientists studying authoritarian regimes have focused on how dictators exercise top down control and how they dominate, intimidate and buy-off their citizens. While certainly much of authoritarianism can be captured in this image, the reality is that many contemporary authoritarians are also very popular and remain so despite stagnant economies and declining living standards. Vladimir Putin is certainly one such leader. In his presentation, Dr. Robertson will share some recent work on the role of emotional attachment in creating and maintaining the Putin project in Russia today.

Graeme Robertson is a professor in the UNC Department of Political Science. A specialist in comparative politics, Robertson’s work focuses on political protest and the dynamics of competition between rulers and their challengers in contemporary authoritarian political systems, most notably Russia. His recent publications include work on political institutions in authoritarian regimes, and have appeared in many academic journals including the American Political Science Review, American Journal of Political Science, Journal of Politics, and British Journal of Political Science.

Lunch and Learn is an interactive lecture series that provides CSEEES faculty affiliates the opportunity to showcase their current research. The lectures are open to all interested faculty, students, staff, and community members. Lunch is provided per timely registration.