YEREVAN, Armenia — The American University of Armenia (AUA) is pleased to announce the publication of a new book by Dr. Jean-François Caron, 2025-26 C. Judson King Endowed Professor and interim program chair of the Master of Public Affairs and Master of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy.
Titled The Authoritarian Social Contract and the Erosion of Democratic Legitimacy, the book offers a timely and thought-provoking analysis of political legitimacy in both authoritarian and democratic systems.
In this new work, Dr. Caron challenges conventional assumptions that democratic governance is the sole source of legitimate political authority. The book introduces the concept of the “authoritarian social contract,” a framework through which non-democratic regimes maintain stability and public support not merely through coercion, but by delivering key societal benefits.
“Over the last 20 years, democratic legitimacy has been declining worldwide while the number of authoritarian states is on the rise. It is therefore important to understand the reasons behind the erosion of democratic legitimacy and the growing attractiveness of illiberal options,” said Dr. Caron.
The study identifies three central pillars underpinning this form of governance: social mobility and economic opportunity, safety and security, and a degree of personal freedom outside the political sphere. According to the author, when these conditions are met, authoritarian regimes can achieve not only durability but also genuine public approval.
At the same time, the book turns a critical lens toward democratic systems, arguing that many are experiencing growing legitimacy crises. Declining social mobility, persistent security concerns, and increasing state intervention in personal freedoms have contributed to rising public dissatisfaction. The analysis draws parallels between these trends and patterns historically observed in weakening authoritarian regimes.
Through a comparative and interdisciplinary approach, the book examines these dynamics in depth, including a focused analysis of contemporary Russia and broader reflections on democratic governance. By doing so, it raises important questions about the future of political systems and the conditions necessary for maintaining public trust.
The Authoritarian Social Contract and the Erosion of Democratic Legitimacy is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and students of political science and international affairs.
Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, affiliated with the University of California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission in the United States. AUA provides local and international students with Western-style education through top-quality undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values.