The thing about Ankh-Morpork though, is that it is the way it is because of Vetinari, ultimately. It is fair (for various values of fair) because Vetinari is fair (for various values of fair), and also ruthless, self-certain, intelligent, devious, far-sighted, selfless, incorrupt and very brave. Vetinari is an idealised version of Machiavelli's Prince, just as the Discworld is an idealized meritocracy.