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Application of statistical physics to politics

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  • Galam, Serge

Abstract

The concept and technics of real space renormalization group are applied to study majority rule voting in hierarchical structures. It is found that democratic voting can lead to totalitarianism by keeping in power a small minority. Conditions of this paradox are analyzed and singled out. Indeed majority rule produces critical thresholds to absolute power. Values of these thresholds can vary from 50% up to at least 77%. The associated underlying mechanism could provide an explanation for both former apparent eternity of communist leaderships and their sudden collapse.

Suggested Citation

  • Galam, Serge, 1999. "Application of statistical physics to politics," Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications, Elsevier, vol. 274(1), pages 132-139.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:phsmap:v:274:y:1999:i:1:p:132-139
    DOI: 10.1016/S0378-4371(99)00320-9
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