Session 6: Modern Classification of Regimes

A major difficulty that is noticed in the modern regimes is the lack of criteria for the classification of regimes. Alternatively, some parameters have been established according to the priorities of different systems. The parameters include defining a ruling body, the compliance achieved by it, balance, development and stability of the state, and the transfer of power from one ruling body to the other. Also, a structural functional approach is adopted in the classification of regimes which accounts for political, economic and cultural aspects. Previously, the economic ideological approach was adopted which formed the third world system.

Among the various modern regimes discussed in this reading, which include Western Polyarchy, Post communist regimes, East Asian regimes, Islamic regimes and Military regimes, the Post communist regime appears to have many problems in its structure. These problems include a lack of consensus in the regime. The failed consensus leads to fragmented party systems. The economic transition in these regimes is also responsible for the criticism faced by it. The power of the state weakens and the centrifugal forces such as ethnic and religious groups rise.

These problems stem from the fact that although communist regimes are transforming into western polyarchies, their communist past cannot be ignored. Also, the process of transition has generated certain problems which are not found in western polyarchies.