BALLOTS AND BULLETS - ELECTION RIOTS IN THE PERIPHERY, 1874-1985

Modernisation theory argues that the liberal institutions of the indus trialised or Core nations have taken root in underdeveloped or Periphe ry ones and produced the pacific flowers of political development. Cri tics of the theory, however, are less sanguine, suggesting that Core i nstitutions represent foreign imports into the Periphery and are viabl e only when closely managed by Core authorities. The study tracks elec tion riots in the Periphery between 1874 and 1985. An upward trend in rioting is observable. Further, riots occur more frequently during per iods of loose control by the Core. The implications for global liberal ism are then discussed.