Tyrani – Pro dikttoi selhvaj a nrody pevaj (2026)

The Economist magazines Book of the Year examines why dictators fail and nations survive. Tyrants appear invincible, controlling the army, secret services and media, yet history shows that almost every dictator eventually falls. Political scientist Marcel Dirsus reveals the weaknesses of authoritarian regimes and shows why they are far more fragile than they seem. Drawing on research, data and interviews with coup plotters, dissidents, intelligence officers and people who have stood up to dictatorships, he explains how autocrats lose power. Why do some regimes collapse within days while others survive for decades? When are mass protests decisive, when does a conspiracy within the regime prevail, and when is the rulers own mistake to blame? And how can chaos, civil war or a new dictatorship be prevented after a tyrants fall? Tyrants is a compelling and highly topical book about power, fear and hope.