Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
How do coup d'etats and coup attempts happen?
Position‹3 of 3

Coup attempts are more likely when there is a strong chance they will succeed

This explanation treats a coup as a calculation rather than a grievance. Proponents argue that discontent is common while attempts are rare, so what distinguishes them is the plotters' reading of whether enough others will join or stand aside.

Supporting arguments · 2

  1. Discontent is common and coup attempts are rare, so something else selects them
  2. A coup succeeds by convincing others that it has already succeeded