“At a time when authoritarianism is gaining ground and democratic governance increasingly questioned, Modern Autocracy could hardly be more relevant. Using rich data, analytical rigor, and writing with verve, Commander and Estrin explain to what extent the economic achievements of different types of authoritarian regimes can be replicated or sustained. This book makes an outstanding contribution to our understanding of the relationship between political power and economic dynamism. A must read for policymakers and scholars.”

Suma Chakrabarti | former president, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

“This forensic examination of the character of autocratic governments, their successes, failures, and vulnerabilities, could not be more timely. It will be required—although sobering—reading for all who hope that the current weaknesses of modern democracies can be overcome.”

Professor Dame Diane Coyle | University of Cambridge

“Authoritarian regimes are snapping at the heels of leading democracies. In this timely and insightful analysis, Commander and Estrin unpack the advantages and serious disadvantages of authoritarian rulers. Ultimately, democracy will prevail—but only if it can once again deliver on the promise of shared prosperity.”

Simon Johnson | coauthor of "Power and Progress: Our 1000-Year Struggle Over Technology and Prosperity" and winner of the 2024 Nobel Prize in Economics

“Why do some autocracies achieve impressive growth while others devastate their economies? Commander and Estrin offer a compelling answer: autocracies differ fundamentally in how they organize their economies. Their analytical framework shows how political organization and regime time horizons shape choices about public goods, private rents, and repression. Combining comparative evidence with illuminating country studies, Modern Autocracy is essential reading for understanding the political economy of authoritarian rule.”

Chenggang Xu | author of "Institutional Genes: Origins of China’s Institutions and Totalitarianism"