Autocratic Legalism Kim Lane Scheppele

This is an excellent topic, as Kim Lane Scheppele’s work on has become foundational for understanding how contemporary authoritarian regimes use law—not by discarding it, but by weaponizing it.

Scheppele outlines a distinct sequence of moves common to autocratic legalist regimes: autocratic legalism kim lane scheppele

Third, autocratic legalism frequently relies on the use of selectively enforced laws and regulations to target opposition groups, dissidents, and other perceived threats to the regime. This can involve the arbitrary application of laws, the use of show trials, or the imposition of harsh penalties for minor infractions. This is an excellent topic, as Kim Lane

In an autocratic legalist state, the law becomes instrumental. The law is merely a tool for the ruler to achieve a specific end. If a law stands in the way, the constitution is amended. Scheppele notes that in Orbán’s Hungary, the constitution has been amended or replaced so frequently that it no longer provides a stable framework for society; it is merely a reflection of the current ruler’s will. In an autocratic legalist state, the law becomes

“The most effective autocracies of the 21st century are not lawless. They are lawyers.” – Adapting Scheppele