In The Origins of Political Order (2011), Francis Fukuyama examines what it takes for a state to maintain political stability by exploring the historical development of political institutions from prehuman times to the French Revolution. He identifies three essential components for a functioning political order: a strong state, rule of law, and accountable government. Drawing on examples from ancient China, India, the Ottoman Empire, and England, Fukuyama shows how these societies succeeded or failed based on the presence or absence of these elements. He argues that political organization is rooted in human biology as social creatures, and traces the evolution of political systems across cultures. The book sets the stage for understanding modern political development, especially in light of the Industrial Revolution and ongoing challenges in state-building efforts worldwide.
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