A presentation by Christian Gläßel, where he introduces his book project (co-authored with Adam Scharpf), which scrutinises the inner workings of coercive bureaucracies. This event is part of the International Security Research Colloquium hosted by the Centre for International Security.
Christian Gläßel will present his book project (co-authored with Adam Scharpf), which scrutinizes the inner workings of coercive bureaucracies. Focusing on the impact of key organizational features of coercive organizations, he explains why some soldiers and policemen participate in coups or state repression, whereas others do not. The core argument of the book is that hierarchical, pyramid-shaped organizations generate mundane career pressures that motivate concerned individuals to make unorthodox career decisions. Officials threatened with discharge may force their way up the hierarchy by participating in a coup, or they may demonstrate their value by conducting the regime's dirty work. An integral part of the project is the collection of original, archival data on coercive institutions in Argentina and Nazi Germany.
This event is part of the International Security Research Colloquium hosted by the Centre for International Security. Prior registration is not required. A link link to joi the virtual event will be posted here.
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About the International Security Research Colloquium
The Centre for International Security regularly organizes a research colloquium on topics related to international security and defense. We aim to build a community of scholars, experts and policymakers interested in topics ranging from European and transatlantic security and defense cooperation, conventional and nuclear disarmament and arms control, to civil war, violence against civilians, and terrorism. The colloquium features academic scholars, post-docs and PhD students working at Berlin-based institutions as well as external guests.
