In this book, these factors are emphasized. Countries in the region were highly influenced by the presence of absence of economic growth. How elites responded to crises also could explain moments that allowed for political change to occur. At times, societal movements have also contributed to the erosion of authoritarian rule, or the emergence of democracy, These factors can be compared to assess their degree of explanatory reach in these case. Yet, we also need to recognize some factors that are more specific to the region or to one or two countries. The following sections present some explanatory propositions for understanding some of the broad strokes of political change in Southeast Asia.