Dictators, unlike Democrats, depend on a small coterie to sustain their power. These backers, generally drawn from the military, the senior civil service, and family or clan members, have a synergistic relationship with their dictator. The dictator delivers opportunities for them to become rich, and they protect him from being overthrown.
Interpretation
Dictators rely on a close group of supporters to maintain their hold on power, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.
This quote highlights the dynamics of power in a dictatorial regime, where the dictator is often supported by a small elite group. This group, typically composed of military officials, senior civil servants, and family members, benefits from the dictator's rule, gaining wealth and security in return for their loyalty and protection of the dictator's position, creating a cycle of dependency and mutual benefit.
In practice
In a discussion on political science, this quote can illustrate the nature of dictatorial governance.
Even the most cynical can hardly be surprised by the antics of Nixon and his accomplices as they are gradually revealed. It matters little, at this point, where the exact truth lies in the maze of perjury, evasion, and of contempt for the normal - hardly inspiring - standards of political conduct.
I dont think that unless a greater effort is made by the Government to win popular support that the war can be won out there. In the final analysis, it is their war. They are the ones who have to win it or lose it. We can help them, we can give them equipment, we can send our men out there as advisers, but they have to win it, the people of Viet-Nam, against the Communists.
Whatever understanding is reached with Pakistan has to be followed honestly, and everybody will have to rise above party politics and be actively committed to make India prosperous.
Political nature abhors a vacuum, which is what often exists for a year or two in a party after it loses a presidential election.
Unless women are prepared to fight politically they must be content to be ignored politically.
The very nature and purposes of Government make it impossible for administrative officials to represent fully or to bind the employer in mutual discussions with Government employee organizations.
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