Promoting polyarchy

In Promoting Polyarchy, William I. Robinson analyzes how the United States and international institutions advanced a model of electoral democracy tied to neoliberal economic reforms—what he terms 'polyarchy'—to extend and solidify U.S.

global influence.

Drawing on case studies and political-economic analysis, Robinson shows how democratic forms were promoted while substantive economic sovereignty and social rights were undermined.

The book traces the interplay between state power, capital, and international organizations in shaping governance structures in the Global South.

It argues that promoted polyarchies served capitalist interests by opening markets, securing resources, and containing popular movements.

Robinson situates these processes within a broader critique of imperial power and transnational capital networks.