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Political Power Depends On Public Legitimacy
- Political power rests on legitimacy granted by the people rather than inherent authority.
- Kory cites Joseph Tainter's "sacred aura of the centre" and rituals like pledging allegiance as the social glue that gives governments power.
Elite Stability Blocks Rapid Political Change
- Mature ruling classes form elites chosen for loyalty and conformity, creating stability but resisting urgent change.
- Kory references John Michael Greer: this elite buffer prevents rapid reforms even when crises demand them.
Government Is Capital With Maintenance Costs
- Political systems are a form of capital that require maintenance paid by the laboring class.
- Kory explains overseers (police, soldiers, media) come from laboring class and can flip once basic survival needs aren't met.