ABSTRACT
This chapter is not properly empirical but moves closer to the empirical level. It also moves beyond the sharp analytical distinction of political modernity, including now the material and other dimensions in its conceptual articulation, although in a subordinate way. It proposes several models of regime, based on analytical operations rather than on ideal-types, which would be instead empirically derived. These models refer to political modernity, including its colonial expression, liberalism and fascism, as well as authoritarian collectivism. Some more specific variations, such as ethnocracy and theocracy are also present. The classical tradition – with its autocratic, oligarchy and democratic forms of rule – is taken up and applied to them all, modified though, in order to make room for modern realities. In particular, the chapter suggests that we may be undergoing a transition from liberal democracy (which has a permanent oligarchic core) to advanced liberal oligarchy, though resistances linked to the growing autonomy of citizens must be acknowledged too. Legitimacy, legitimation and crisis return here also at a more empirical level.
