ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in subsequent chapters of this book. The book explains theoretical argument that is based on one inescapable fact about cabinet politics: permanence in the cabinet is determined, to a huge extent, by a leader's incentives to stay in office. A cabinet position offers a unique opportunity to advise a head of government and determine the direction of public policy. The book explains how leaders manipulate their cabinets in order to fend off internal and external threats and consequently extend their tenure in office. It suggests that competence is not essential for holding a cabinet position in autocratic countries. In terms of the discussion on cabinet change, the most relevant aspect of presidential systems is that voters elect presidents to office, and the latter mostly lose office by term limits or elections.
