Alastair Smith

Biography: 

Alastair Smith is a professor of politics at New York University and the coauthor of The Dictator’s Handbook.

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Recent Commentary

Venezuelan leader Hugo Chávez

Hale, or Farewell

by Bruce Bueno de Mesquita, Alastair Smithvia Hoover Digest
Friday, January 25, 2013

A despot’s health is a serious matter. By Bruce Bueno de Mesquita and Alastair Smith.

Articles
Former Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez
Analysis and Commentary

In Sickness and in Health

by Bruce Bueno de Mesquita, Alastair Smithvia Foreign Policy
Tuesday, September 18, 2012

No one likes to go to the doctor.  But for a political leader, even news of such a trip can sound like a death knell for a career.

Articles
Sphinx

When the Strongman Falters

by Bruce Bueno de Mesquita, Alastair Smithvia Hoover Digest
Wednesday, October 12, 2011

The Arab revolts show why some autocrats hang on forever while others get swept away. By Bruce Bueno de Mesquita and Alastair Smith.

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Analysis and Commentary

A Dictator's Handbook for the President

by Bruce Bueno de Mesquita, Alastair Smithvia Foreign Policy
Wednesday, September 14, 2011

To win in 2012, Obama's going to have to act a bit more like the tyrants he's so proud of toppling...

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Analysis and Commentary

How Tyrants Endure

by Bruce Bueno de Mesquita, Alastair Smithvia New York Times
Friday, June 10, 2011

Wealthy dictators can ward off revolution; poorer ones will have no choice but to democratize...

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