During this public lecture, University of Bath Global Chair Professor Kaushik Basu will discuss the rise in authoritarianism and erosion of democracy around the world and the often fragile economic reality that underpins these regimes.

The event is free to attend and open to Bath staff and students, as well as members of the public. Light refreshments will be served after the lecture.

This event is free, but you must sign up for a ticket to attend

About this lecture

During this lecture, Professor Kaushik Basu will discuss his research into the following:

Several studies, including reports from the V-Dem Institute, have documented the rise in authoritarianism and erosion of democracy around the world.

As we study these big macro phenomena, we are discovering many patterns. Regimes that look rock solid often turn out to be fragile beneath the surface and crumble; but there are also cases where leaders, on the verge of collapse, use strategies to stifle dissent.

How do we differentiate between these cases and get a deeper understanding of these macro phenomena? This lecture will analyse the micro-foundations of these macro-political events, and discuss laws and constitutions that can protect democracy and the freedoms of ordinary people.

Professor Kaushik Basu was appointed for a two-year term as University of Bath Global Chair in 2025 to help the University boost its research and global reach.

He is a distinguished economist renowned for his influential work in development economics, game theory, and welfare economics. Professor Basu’s research, which spans the theoretical foundations of economics as well as practical policy applications, has shaped global understanding of issues such as labour markets, industrial organisation, and the economics of child labour. His innovative contributions include the formulation of the “Traveler’s Dilemma” and the development of new approaches to law and economics.