In this classic work of comparative politics, Samuel P. Huntington argues against the assumption that economic and social development automatically lead to stable democracies. He contends that the primary challenge for developing nations is not a lack of liberty, but the absence of legitimate and effective political institutions. Huntington introduces the concept of 'political decay,' where rapid social mobilization outpaces institutional development, resulting in instability and violence. This book provides a critical framework for understanding the political turmoil that often accompanies modernization, emphasizing the paramount importance of establishing order and authority before pursuing widespread political participation.