Polity Atlas

How each model solves the same problems

Instead of “democracy versus anarchism”, compare the concrete ways collective problems get solved.

Question✕✕✕
How are decisions made?An unelected Leader with appointment powers over courts, media and half the Guardian Council; an elected president and parliament whose candidates are vetted; the Expediency Council arbitrates.Grand Council of 50 chiefs chosen by clan mothers; questions pass between groups of nations, each seeking unanimity, with the Onondaga Firekeepers confirming or resolving disagreement.Each listed body sets its own well-being objectives and steps; the Welsh Ministers publish national indicators and a future trends report after each election.
How are conflicts resolved?The Leader's arbitration among factions; the Expediency Council between parliament and the Guardian Council; revolutionary courts for political cases.The Confederacy describes the Grand Council as resolving disputes among the nations and planning for the welfare of all the people.The Commissioner may review a body and recommend; the body must take reasonable steps to follow or publish reasons (s 22). The Auditor General examines application of the principle.
How are public goods funded?Oil-funded subsidies, health, education and social insurance; foundations (bonyads) and IRGC firms provide services and patronage; sanctions constrain provision.UnknownCovers the Welsh Ministers, local authorities, health boards, national park authorities and other listed bodies; public services boards plan locally.
How is AI used?No algorithmic governance documented; authorities use surveillance cameras and digital tools to enforce hijab rules and track protesters, and impose internet shutdowns.No documented AI role.No documented AI role.
What are the main risks?War and external strikes, a contested succession, economic crisis under sanctions, shrinking electoral participation, and lethal repression of protest.Operates alongside US and Canadian governments, which limits its practical jurisdiction; its rule of unanimity within and between blocs requires broad agreement.CLM-0117CLM-0118Soft 'follow or explain' enforcement; procedural compliance; difficulty measuring long-term and preventative benefits.

This illustrates differences in design; it is not a universal claim about outcomes. Each cell links to mechanisms and the claims behind them.