Using support vector machines for measuring democracy

Arbeitspapier

We present a novel approach for measuring democracy, which enables a very detailed and sensitive index. This method is based on Support Vector Machines, a mathematical algorithm for pattern recognition. Our implementation evaluates 188 countries in the period between 1981 and 2011. The Support Vector Machines Democracy Index (SVMDI) is continuously on the 0-1-Interval and robust to variations in the numerical process parameters. The algorithm introduced here can be used for every concept of democracy without additional adjustments, and due to its exibility it is also a valuable tool for comparison studies.

Object Details

• Language: Englisch

References and Relationships

• Bibliographic citation: Series: Discussion Paper Series ; No. 130

Classification and Topics

• Classification: Wirtschaft ; Index Numbers and Aggregation; Leading indicators ; Miscellaneous Mathematical Tools ; Methodology for Collecting, Estimating, and Organizing Macroeconomic Data; Data Access ; Structure, Scope, and Performance of Government ; Capitalist Systems: Political Economy
• Subject: Democracy ; Support Vector Machines ; Democracy Index

Contributors, Places and Time

• Event: Geistige Schöpfung
• (who): Gründler, Klaus ; Krieger, Tommy
• Event: Veröffentlichung
• (who): Julius Maximilian University of Würzburg, Chair of Economic Order and Social Policy
• (where): Würzburg
• (when): 2015

Further information

• Handle: http://hdl.handle.net/10419/110276
• Last update: 10.03.2025, 11:45 AM CET