30/07/2011 GMT
Why do dictators and democrats follow remarkably similar rules when it comes to staying in power? And what chance of making all societies more equal?
How do the rich and powerful always stay on top? What is it that makes autocratic rulers tick? What calculations do they make to keep themselves in power and ensure the loyalty of those around them? And what formula, if any, could break their grip and make societies more equal?
We put these questions to our panel, American political scientist Bruce Bueno de Mesquita, historian of modern Iran Ali Ansari, and authority on the effects of social inequality Richard Wilkinson.
Illustration by Emily Kasriel: God, money and guns - keeping the elites in power.
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Chapters
PT 1
Bueno de Mesquita: Dictator’s Handbook
Duration: 15:21
Ali Ansari
Ali Ansari: Ruling Iran
Duration: 07:39
PT 2 60 second idea
60 second idea: Put a photo of a dictator in your bathroom.
Duration: 05:36
Richard Wilkinson
Richard Wilkinson: Equality is good for everyone
Duration: 11:53
Broadcasts
- Sat 30 Jul 201108:05GMTBBC World Service Online
- Sat 30 Jul 201121:05GMTBBC World Service Online
- Sun 31 Jul 201101:05GMTBBC World Service Online
- Sun 31 Jul 201114:05GMTBBC World Service Online
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The programme that explains the present by exploring the past
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