Physics
The Role of Political Culture in Shaping Democratic Consolidation
Quick fact
Political scientist Robert Dahl found that democracies are far more likely to survive when citizens share a culture that values competitive elections and conflict resolution through bargaining rather than violence—even more than economic wealth alone.
Why this is interesting
Two countries adopt nearly identical constitutions and hold the same elections—yet one thrives as a democracy while the other slides into authoritarianism. What invisible force explains the difference?