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The Reverse Cargo Cult: Why Authoritarian Governments Lie to Their People

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  • Sonin, Konstantin

Abstract

Why did the Soviet Union organize regular elections, national and local, with one candidate and reported 99.9% support with 99.9% turnout? Were the Soviet citizens so stupid that they did not understand that they have no say in choosing their government? The Reverse Cargo Cult metaphor explains why dictators tell their citizens lies that citizens know to be lies: a verifiable lie told by a politician changes citizens' perceptions of politicians and reduces their willingness to replace them. The model explains the mechanics of authoritarian propaganda that puts much emphasis on persuading citizens how bad foreign politicians are.

Suggested Citation

  • Sonin, Konstantin, 2025. "The Reverse Cargo Cult: Why Authoritarian Governments Lie to Their People," CEPR Discussion Papers 20316, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:20316
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    File URL: https://cepr.org/publications/DP20316
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • P00 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - General - - - General
    • D85 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Network Formation
    • L82 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Entertainment; Media

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